First Riding Lesson: What to Expect?

Discovering horse riding is a truly emotional experience. Whether it’s out of passion for horses, a desire for sport, or simple curiosity, the first lesson can bring as much excitement as apprehension. This article guides you step by step to know what to expect during your first contact with the horse and the riding school.

I. Before the First Lesson

1. The Right Outfit

Riding helmet: often provided by the riding school for beginners; it must be certified and properly fitted.
Comfortable pants: flexible trousers or thick leggings, avoiding inner seams that may cause chafing.
Suitable footwear: closed boots with a small heel, sometimes complemented by half-chaps.
Gloves: useful to avoid blisters while holding the reins.

2. Administrative Steps

Registration at the riding school (national federation license and insurance included).
A possible medical certificate.
Choosing between a package deal or single lessons.

II. Arrival at the Riding School

1. Discovering the Facilities

The instructor introduces:

The stables and boxes,
The arena (outdoor) or the indoor school,
The main safety rules to respect.

2. First Contact with the Horse

The assigned horse or pony is chosen based on the rider’s size and level.

You will learn to approach the horse calmly, always from a visible angle, and to connect through simple gestures (gentle touch, calm voice).

III. Preparing the Horse

1. Grooming

Brushing the horse to remove dust and stimulate blood circulation.
Checking for any wounds or sensitive areas.
Cleaning the hooves with a hoof pick.

2. Tack

Placing the saddle: pad, saddle, girth.
Fitting the bridle or bitless bridle, depending on the discipline.
The instructor generally assists beginners through every step.

IV. The Riding Lesson

1. Learning the Basics

Mounting with the help of a mounting block.
Discovering the three basic gaits: walk, trot, canter (canter is rarely included in the very first lesson).
Holding the reins correctly and keeping a balanced posture.

2. Typical Exercises for a First Lesson

Leading the horse at the walk, turning left and right.
Stopping and moving off.
Discovering posting trot (rising and sitting in rhythm).

V. After the Lesson

1. Dismounting and Horse Care

The rider dismounts with the help of the instructor, then:

Removes the saddle and bridle.
Brushes again to remove sweat.
Returns the horse to its stable or paddock.

2. Debriefing

The instructor takes time to go over:

The positive aspects of the session,
The points for improvement,
Tips for the next time.

VI. Practical Tips for a Successful First Experience

Arrive early to have time to discover the facilities.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions to the instructor.
Stay calm and patient: horses are very sensitive to emotions.
Accept that progress takes time, without comparing yourself to other riders.

Conclusion

The first riding lesson is above all a discovery: of a sensitive animal, a demanding sport, and a unique environment. Between grooming, initiation, and first sensations in the saddle, the experience is often unforgettable.