| You need 3 essential things to learn to ride - an | | | | Having the right equipment for horseback riding is |
| instructor, the right equipment and a love for horses. A | | | | essential. The first thing you need is a god mount ( |
| love for horses is not something you learn or you can | | | | pony or horse ). Normally, if you are just starting your |
| buy. It is a love already have. You might not know it | | | | instructor will have a lesson horse to provide you with |
| yet, but usually if you love most animals then you will | | | | as well as any tack. What you should know about |
| for sure fall in love with horses. | | | | your pony is that it is a beginners pony, he/she is |
| Looking for a good instructor should be at the top of | | | | experienced and that he/she is very well trained. You |
| your list of things to do before learning to horseback | | | | pony should have a very good temperament and be |
| ride. You should look for an instructor who is certified | | | | friendly. Your instructor should provide you with tack |
| either by Horse Council or Equine Canada. You should | | | | for your pony. It should fit both the pony and you. |
| also go and meet with a coach beforehand to make | | | | Meaning the saddle should not be too big for you. |
| sure you will get along. Feel free to try out a few | | | | Once you are ready to learn to ride, you will need the |
| different coaches. Feel free to take one lesson from | | | | right apparel. Most importantly a ASTM certified |
| one then another lesson from another, until you find | | | | helmet. Always wear you helmet with the chin strap |
| one you are comfortable with and one that you like. | | | | attached when on your pony. You also will need boots |
| Remember your lessons should be enjoyable as well | | | | with a heel. The heel should be at least 1/4 of an inch. |
| as educational. Your coach/instructor should be very | | | | This helps prevent your foot from slipping through the |
| safety minded and have an organized barn. Also, | | | | stirrups and getting stuck. Another thing the remember |
| when entering a potential coaches you should take | | | | is comfortable long pants, to help protect your legs. |
| note of how her/his horses look in the barn and what | | | | Your equipment and clothing does not all have to be |
| condition they are in. If the horses there so not look like | | | | new, much of it can be second hand, as long it is in |
| they are well cared for, leave. | | | | good condition, it is fine. Good Luck Horseback Riding! |