Riding is fun

When you first start to ride it can be a bit daunting. Here, we look at some of the things you can do to make sure you enjoy your first ride…

Although you may be eager and excited about learning to ride, it is important to understand the possible dangers that come with it. It's normal to be a bit nervous the first time you get on a horse or pony but you will soon find confidence.

One of the best ways to feel safe when learning to ride is by having the correct basic equipment and feeling confident about the riding school you are taking lessons with - check out our lists over the page.

There are two organisations that set standards for riding schools: the British Horse Society (BHS) and the Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS). Riding schools approved by one or both of these organisations have met the standards required in terms of health and safety of the riders and animals. It is always best to choose a school which has been approved by one if not both of these associations.

Most riding establishments offer private teaching or lessons in small groups. However, if you are a complete beginner, most schools require that you start with a private lesson with a tutor.

This may be a one-to-one class with the instructor or possibly with one or two other beginners. The idea is that these more intensive lessons enable you to gain confidence and reach a safe and comfortable standard to join a group class.

Being taught to ride is different from being at school. The instructor may need to shout in order to be heard over a noisy ménage - try not to take this personally, they are not shouting at you.

At the first lesson you can expect to learn the basic riding skills, including: how to get on and off the horse, how to sit correctly, and how to walk and trot. You will also be shown how to holds the reins and the signals you can make to guide, steer and, most importantly, stop your horse. The first lesson usually takes place in an enclosed pen specifically for beginners, so there will be no danger of the horse running off.

Before you know it, you'll be adjusting the saddle yourself and winning rosettes.

Basic equipment for beginners

• An approved standard hat MUST be worn - look for a BSI or Euro standard PAS 015, EN 1384 or ASTM F1163. It must be unbroken and fit properly. Never buy a second-hand hat.

• Jodhpurs are useful, but as a beginner rider you may not be sure if you are going to continue the sport and therefore not want to spend the money on a pair straight away. A pair of strong trousers without a seam on the inside leg is sufficient. A seam on the inside leg can pinch and cut into the skin as your leg rubs on the saddle.

• Riding/jodhpur boots or a strong pair of boots that cover the ankle and have a smooth sole and small heel are essential as the ankles can rub and become sore through contact with the stirrup and leathers. A slight heel is necessary to prevent the foot slipping through the stirrup iron. Trainers and wellington boots are definitely not suitable as they can easily become stuck in the stirrup.

• A pair of strong gloves are advisable. Beginners using the reins can develop blisters between the fingers and on the palm of the hand.

• A long-sleeved shirt, a properly fastened jacket or a sweatshirt are also recommended.

What a beginner rider should expect from a riding school

• The school should have a variety of horses to cater for any age or weight of beginner rider. These horses and ponies need to be steady, stable and experienced.

• The correct equipment should always be provided. The tack should be in good condition and clean.

• Safe schooling areas for lessons that are properly enclosed, surfaced and maintained.

• An approved and good standard of instruction. Inquire about the qualifications of the instructors and which instructor teaches beginner riders.

• Before choosing a school, visit as many as you can in your area. Take a tour of the stables, riding areas, office and tack room. Look at the standard of facilities and even watch a lesson.