Riding a Horse the Right Way
Get started riding on top of a horse safely by having in place an excellent instructor who teaches you about grooming, saddling and mounting before you ride. Always wear an ASTM/SEI-approved helmet, boots with heels and suitable clothing. Learn how to balance and posture and which cues to use for walk, halt, turn at each gait (walk, trot and canter). Always obey arena, trail and road safety rules.
Horseback riding is among the most rewarding and challenging outdoor sports – but safety is a priority. Whether you are learning and riding English or Western, all beginner equestrians should start out with some type of training/lessons, a watchful eye over your performance by someone who can spot potential mistakes that could lead to negative reinforcement of bad habits and they must make sure that from the beginning, you establish a solid ground in basic horsemanship.
Guides and videos will help you get ready mentally, but there’s no substitute for in-person training to establish the right posture, timing and control that are essential for keeping rider and horse out of harm’s way.
Before You Begin Your Ride
Learn Ground Skills First
Before you ride, put in the time on groundwork – practicing leading, tying, grooming and picking hooves. These experiences show you how horses talk and build trust. Behavioural problems are avoided, and you will learn to be safely handled as per USPC general standards.
Grooming and Saddling
- Brush away dirt and grime to prevent saddle sores.
- Look at the hooves for stones, or cracks.
- Spread saddle pads evenly together, if no wrinkle to the pad.
- Tighten the girth (English) or cinch (Western) firmly, but not too tight.
- Fit the bridle quietly; don’t pinch the horse’s ears or lips.
Mounting and Balance
Mount Safely
- Always mount from the left, unless you have trained otherwise.
- Hold reins in your left hand.
- Left foot in the stirrup, right hand on the saddle.
- Ease your right leg over.
- Sit lightly – ease down into the saddle.
Find Your Seat and Balance
Remain seated comfortably with squared off shoulders, heels flat on the floor and a gaze to the front. Rely on your core for stability, not by crushing with your knees. Good balance is achieved when a rider moves in perfect harmony with the horse – all certified equestrian schools teach that principle.
Basic Riding Commands
Walk, Halt, and Turn
- Walk: Gently grip both legs and relax pressure as the horse walks forward.
- Halt: “sit the horse deeper” wrap fingers around reins, relax your legs.
- Turn:
- English: Shorten the direct rein (bring your hand to bear in the direction of turn).
- Western: Neck rein (lay the rein on the horse’s neck).
These are the basis of every gait and maneuver.
Trotting, Cantering, and Loping
Trotting
The trot is a 2 beat gait that an exercise in balancing:
- Posting trot: Rise and sit in rhythm (typical of English riding).
- Sitting trot: Through water by hip and lower back.
Cantering or Loping
The canter (or lope in Western) is a three-beat gait – more relaxed and deliberate. When you have the trot steady change to this gait trot and then.
They should be quiet with their hands, relaxed in the body, and looking up not down.”
Horseback Riding Safety
Arena Safety & Etiquette
- Always pass left shoulder to left shoulder.
- Don’t turn in front of riders or brake suddenly.
- Announce transitions (“coming down to walk”).
- Give way to riders on the outside track or in a faster gait.
Trail Riding Safety
- Stay on marked trails.
- Look out for potholes, animals and low-hanging branches.
- Take single file, and leave space between group 15.
- If alone, take a phone or bring a GPS alert.
Road and Night Riding
If you must ride along roads:
- Wear high-visibility or reflective gear.
- Ride against traffic (unless local law requires–see above).
- Use lights after dark.
- Remain calm – horses can spook at horns or headlights.
Beyond the Basics
- Rein-Back (Backing Up): Control in Confined Spaces. Control helps the horse to loosen.
- Riding Farmosa: Better balance and feel.
- Out of the saddle emergency dismount: Get tips on what to do in an unexpected issue.
- How To Fall: Let go of your reins and roll away from the horse.
Essential Safety Gear
| Gear | Purpose |
|---|---|
| ASTM/SEI-approved helmet | Head protection |
| by 1″ heel | Keeps foot from sliding through stirrup |
| Gloves | Better grip on reins |
| Safety risers and/or toe stoppers | Minimize the entrapment opportunity |
| Optional: body protector | Added torso safety |
Taking Care of Your Horse After the Ride
Proper Dismount
Bring your horse to a stop, slip your feet out of the stirrups, lean forward and swing your right leg over. Touchdown gently and slip the reins over your horse’s head.
Cool Down & Groom
Walk for 5 to 10 minutes: reduce heart rate, loosen girth, untack and brush sweat off. Inspect for rubs or chafing.
Reward and Bond
Reward with praise or a small treat (carrots, apples). Using reward-based methods allows a trainer to reinforce responses from the horse.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping warm-up or cool-down
- Hard pressure with the bit but no support from the legs
- Unlawful riding without the helmet or gear
- Trying to ride alone too soon
- Ignoring tack fit or wear
Quick Horseback Riding Safety Checklist
| Step | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Gear | Helmet, boots, gloves, saddle fit |
| Pre-Ride | Groom, check girth, inspect tack |
| Mounting | Hold reins, balance, mount gently |
| In the Saddle | Heels down, eyes forward, and stay in balance |
| Mile Stone Ride | Cool down, unsaddle, brush, reward |
Conclusion
Being on horseback is about one being, two living creatures that have an athletic connection between them. In general, the surest riders are those who go slowly and surely forward doing their learning under supervision, respecting the animal. No matter if your dream is a leisurely trail ride or competing in classical dressage, remember: every accomplished rider began with basics and safely.
FAQ
Q1. Is it possible to teach myself to ride a horse?
No. Correct positioning, controlling rein placement and safety know-how can only be taught by hands-on instruction with a credentialed instructor.
Q2. What should beginners wear?
Rider attire such as certified helmet, long pants, gloves and boots with a low heel. Avoid scarves or loose clothing.
Q3. How long until I’m confident riding it?
Riding once a week or more, most riders can control the horse at W/T with 8-12 sessions. Canter work takes several months.
Q4. English or Western for beginners?
Both are suitable. English is about posture and precision; Western gives you a deeper, more secure seat for trail work.
Q5. If my horse becomes afraid, what do I need to do?
Sit down deep in the saddle, use voice commands and do not pull hard on the reins.” Desensitization training should be led by your teacher.
Q6. How do I build confidence?
To ensure that your horse transitions from fit to fat as smooth as possible, start with small goals (not every ride is a show), work the little stuff – like groundwork and grooming with your horse.
Dr. Johnson Coleman is a dedicated veterinary expert with over 10 years of hands-on experience in animal health and wellness. His mission is to help pets live longer, happier lives through compassionate care, practical guidance, and a genuine love for animals.
After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, Dr. Coleman spent a decade working in both private clinics and community shelters, where he gained deep expertise in preventive medicine, pet nutrition, and behavioral care.
He believes that pet owners deserve reliable, easy-to-understand information about their companions’ health. Through his writing, Dr. Coleman breaks down complex veterinary topics into friendly, actionable advice that helps readers make informed decisions for their pets.
Outside of his professional work, Dr. Coleman volunteers with local animal rescue groups and enjoys spending time outdoors with his two golden retrievers. His lifelong dedication to animal welfare continues to inspire his work and connect with pet lovers around the world.
