18 Aug A Guide to Horseback Riding for Beginners
Riding a horse for the first time may seem intimidating. Especially if you haven’t grown up with regular access to large animals but horseback riding is an exciting and rewarding activity for people of all ages. At Mountain Creek Riding Stable, we specialize in helping new riders build confidence in the saddle. Read on to learn the best horseback riding for beginners tips!
Tip #1:
Choosing the Right Stable as a Beginner
Although “research” might not sound exciting when planning a fun activity, it’s important for first-time horseback riders to know the different types of stables available.
If you’ve never been on a horse before, start by searching for “trail riding stables” or “hack stables.” In horse jargon, a “hack” is a horse trained to walk calmly in a single file line and follow the leader. This makes hack stables perfect for guided horseback rides, since no previous horsemanship skills are required. Hack riding is also light exercise for the horse, which means these horses stay calm and steady.
This is exactly what we offer at Mountain Creek Riding Stable, guided trail rides designed for beginners. Our well-trained, docile horses provide a safe and enjoyable experience for riders who just want to relax and enjoy the activity. Each ride lasts about 45 to 50 minutes, which is long enough to feel like a real adventure without leaving you sore afterward. With years of experience in guided horseback riding, we’ve built our program specifically for people with little to no riding background.
Of course, if you’re interested in going beyond casual trail riding, you may also want to look into lesson barns. These facilities are designed for people who want to grow their riding skills and work closely with instructors. Lesson barns can help you progress into horse sports such as jumping, dressage, or barrel racing.
Finally, there are boarding barns. These stables allow horse owners to keep their horses on-site when they don’t have land or space of their own. While some boarding barns may also offer lessons, they’re generally meant for people who already own a horse. If you’re a complete beginner, you’ll want to stick with a trail riding or lesson barn instead.
Tip #2:
What to Wear for Horseback Riding
For basic horseback riding, comfort and safety come first. Always wear long pants so you don’t chafe on the saddle, and choose secure, closed-toe shoes – avoid flip flops, sandals, or high heels. A fitted shirt is best, since loose clothing can get caught on the saddle or tack.
Other items depend on the weather and season. On sunny days, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen can make your ride more enjoyable. In the summer, bug spray is a must, while in cooler months you may want gloves, a jacket, or even a raincoat. Most stables ride rain or shine, so it’s always smart to check the forecast before heading out.
One of the most important pieces of riding gear is a helmet. While some stables may make them optional, helmets are strongly recommended—especially for beginner riders—for added safety and peace of mind.
For more detailed advice, check out our other blog posts:
Tip #3:
Beginner Horseback Riding Tips: Reading Horses & Staying Balanced
One of the most important skills for beginner riders is learning how to read a horse’s body language—especially their ears.
- Ears forward → the horse is focused on what’s in front of them.
- Ears to the side → they’re relaxed or listening to sounds nearby.
- Ears pinned back flat → a warning sign that the horse may be angry, irritated, or uncomfortable.
Approaching Horses Safely
Always approach a horse from the front so they can clearly see you. Even the gentlest horse might kick if startled. If you must approach from the side or behind, use your voice to let them know you’re there.
Balance and Posture in the Saddle
When you ride, you’ll naturally use your core muscles, lower back, and legs to stay balanced. The saddle helps distribute your weight, but maintaining proper posture is key: sit tall, shoulders back, and keep your balance centered.
Staying Calm and Confident
It’s normal to feel nervous if you’ve never been on a horse before, but staying calm is essential. Horses are sensitive, gentle animals that can pick up on your energy. If you’re anxious, your horse may become uneasy too. Staying confident, relaxed, and level-headed is one of the most important horseback riding tips for beginners.
Tip #4:
Stay hydrated and fuel your body well
Horseback riding may look effortless, but it’s actually a highly physical activity. You’ll be engaging core and leg muscles to stay balanced in the saddle. Like with any form of exercise, staying hydrated is key. Since you’ll likely be doing movements your body isn’t used to—plus spending time outdoors—it’s important to drink plenty of water, especially on warm, sunny days.
If you’re taking part in more advanced horsemanship activities such as barrel racing, dressage, or extended trail rides (some barns even offer 5–9 hour rides or overnight trips), be prepared for a serious workout. Riding at that level is excellent for building strength and endurance when done regularly. And just like with any workout routine, you’ll want to support your body by fueling up with healthy meals and staying hydrated.
Book A Guided Horse Riding Trip In The Poconos
Mountain Creek Riding Stable has been in the business of guiding beginners on horseback riding trips since 1993, so we’re well established in the industry. Our trail guides will give you a thorough introduction, including horse safety tips, how to use your body to steer, and make sure you have a helmet that fits you. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable ride through the Poconos on horseback!
Book today or learn more about our horseback trail riding in the Poconos!
FAQ’s
- Is horseback riding hard for beginners?
- Horseback riding can be challenging at first, but most beginners quickly learn the basics with proper instruction. Balance, posture, and clear communication with the horse are key.
- What should I wear for my first time horseback riding?
- Wear long pants, a comfortable shirt, and boots with a small heel. Avoid loose clothing, scarves, or sandals, as these can be unsafe around horses.
- Do I need to be physically fit to ride a horse?
- You don’t need to be an athlete, but horseback riding does require balance, leg strength, and core stability. Treat it like light to moderate exercise.
- How long does it take to learn to ride a horse?
- Most beginners can learn basic control in a few lessons. Building confidence, good posture, and stronger riding skills may take several months of regular practice.
- Is horseback riding safe for beginners?
- Yes, when done with proper instruction and safety gear. Always wear a helmet, follow your instructor’s directions, and choose a reputable riding stable.
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