A Window on ...Horse Riding
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A Window on ... Horse Riding |
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 | Q. Where is the best place to learn about horse riding? A. The best place to learn is at an approved riding school with a qualified instructor. Every area has several good riding schools and these are usually listed in yellow pages. A full list of recommended schools can be obtained from The British Horse Society or your local authority. (see Sources of Information). |
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| Q. Can I wear trainers when I go horse riding? A. Trainers are not really suitable to wear for riding. They don't protect your ankles and they don't have a heel to stop your foot slipping through the stirrup. Ankle boots or long boots are more suitable types of footwear. (see Getting Started). |
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| Q. What is the difference between a horse and a pony? A. All breeds up to 14.2 hands high are classed as ponies. Breeds that are 14.3 hands high and above are classed as horses. |
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| Q. Are horses and ponies expensive to buy? A. Both can be very expensive. If you are interested in buying a pony, you should seek professional advice first. All ponies and horses should be sold with an authorized certificate from a vet (see Getting Started). |
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| Q. I have never ridden before. Will I find it difficult? A. If you have never ridden before, you should go to a qualified instructor for lessons. An instructor will select a horse or pony that is suitable for you to ride and guide you through the basic steps. You will soon improve your skills and gain confidence. (see Learning to Ride). |
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| Q. I would like to work at a stable. What's the next step? A. Local riding stables often have special days when you can go along as a volunteer to learn about the work that is done. If you like it you can offer your help on a regular basis and this will be good experience if you want to work in a stable when you leave school (see Sources of Information). |
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| Q. I would like a horse of my own. Will it take much looking after? A. A horse needs a lot of time. It must be fed, exercised and groomed every day of the year, so you must make a commitment to do this when you buy a horse. It also needs living space - that means a stable and a field for exercise. Some people stable their horses with a local riding stables but as the owner it is still up to you to do most of the work with the horse. Remember there are also going to be costs - for food, stabling, grooming, vet's fees etc. (see About Horses). |
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