Learning to Ride

Horse riding is an inclusive, exciting and enriching activity that encourages numerous skills and qualities. Individuals learn not only how to create a partnership with their pony in the saddle, but how to care for and take responsibility for an animal.

Horse riding isn’t one size fits all, and progression looks different for everyone. But the start of the journey is always the same – your first riding lesson!

Whilst all riding schools are slightly different, most will welcome you upon arrival, where they will check your riding equipment or provide you with some to use during the lesson. You will meet your pony and make your way over to their riding arena, where staff will teach you how to mount the pony safely and assist you in getting comfortable.

Usually, there will be someone walking with you and your pony on the ground, leading the horse to ensure your safety. From there, your first lesson is all about becoming comfortable and confident with being on the pony!

Pony Club Coaches are always qualified, and are there to answer your questions and help you to understand the basics of horse riding in a friendly, supportive manner.

You will want to avoid any loose, flowy clothing when horse riding – ideally, you will wear long leggings, jodhpurs or similar that avoid chafing against the saddle. A long-sleeved, breathable top is usually advised, but remember to dress for the weather – you may be outdoors for your lesson, so a waterproof coat without a hood might be needed!

Footwear is important – you don’t need to have expensive riding boots, but a shoe with a small heel is needed to prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrups.

You will need to wear a properly fitted riding helmet, but don’t worry if you don’t have one. Most riding schools will have riding helmets that you can borrow for your lessons.

This is up to you! If you enjoyed your horse riding lesson or would like to try again, speak to your riding school to book another lesson, where you’ll build on the new skills you’ve picked up.

If you are riding at a Pony Club Linked Centre and enjoyed your first lesson, you can sign up to become a Pony Club Centre Member for under £4 a month – this opens the doors to a world of learning, friendship and fun. You’ll be provided with opportunities to learn about horses on the ground as well as in the saddle, earn Achievement Badges and develop your skills with people in your age group.

You can find Pony Club Linked Centres on our website by searching your postcode on our ‘Find a Pony Club’ page. From there, you should contact your local Centres to learn some more information such as prices, availability, times etc.

Not every riding school is a Pony Club Linked Centre, so if you are interested in Pony Club activities, the best way to get involved is to find a riding school through our Centre Scheme. Alternatively, if you find a riding school that works for you that isn’t affiliated with The Pony Club, speak to your riding school to see if they would like to join The Pony Club Centre Scheme, where they can become a Linked Centre and increase their offering!