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Beginner Riding Lesson FAQs

07/12/2025 | White Fences Equestrian Center |

Welcome to our latest blog post all about beginner riding lesson FAQs! If you’re thinking about taking up horseback riding, chances are you’ve got a few questions, and maybe even a few nerves. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’re answering some of the most common questions new riders ask before they step into the stirrups.

Please note: This guide is designed as general advice and is specifically tailored to those interested in learning English-style riding.

1. What should I wear for my first riding lesson?
When it comes to your attire for a riding lesson, comfort and safety are key. Wear long pants to protect your legs from chafing, and sturdy shoes with a small heel to prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup. A certified riding helmet is a must-have to protect your head.  Honestly, this is always non-negotiable for your safety. Many barns (like ours!) provide helmets for first-time riders, but it’s good to check ahead.  If you’re taking English riding lessons, skip the jeans. Denim seams can damage the delicate leather on English saddles and they’re not exactly comfortable for posting trot! Instead, opt for riding tights, knee-patch breeches, or full-seat breeches for a more comfortable and saddle-friendly ride. Pro tip: You don’t need to buy all the gear right away. Many new riders start with basic athletic wear and upgrade as they continue riding regularly.

2. Do I need any prior experience with horses to take riding lessons?
Absolutely not! Riding lessons are designed for beginners, so no prior experience is necessary. Our instructors will guide you through everything you need to know, from mounting and dismounting to basic horsemanship as well as riding techniques.

3. How long is a typical riding lesson?
Riding lessons can vary in length depending on the riding school and individual preferences. A typical lesson usually lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, including time for grooming and tacking up your horse.

4. Group Lessons vs. Private Lessons: What’s the Difference?

Whether you’re new to riding or looking to level up, both group and private lessons offer unique benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose what fits best:

Benefits of Group Riding Lessons

  • Social & Fun Atmosphere: Group lessons are a great way to meet fellow riders, cheer each other on, and build a sense of barn community.

  • Learn From Others: Watching other riders work through challenges helps reinforce your own learning especially when you’re new.

  • Cost-Effective: Group lessons are typically more affordable than private sessions, making them a great option for regular riding.

  • Real-World Riding Situations: Riding with others simulates real-life situations like schooling rings or warm-up arenas, helping your horse get comfortable around other horses.

Benefits of Private Riding Lessons

  • One-on-One Attention: You’ll receive personalized feedback tailored to your specific goals, riding style, and experience level.

  • Faster Progress: With no time shared between riders, the lesson is 100% focused on you and ideal for mastering new skills or correcting habits.

  • Customized Pacing: Whether you need to slow things down or push ahead, private lessons move at your speed, not the group’s.

  • Great for Nervous Riders: If you’re new to riding or feel a bit anxious in groups, private sessions offer a calm and focused learning environment.

So Which Should You Choose?

  • New riders often benefit from starting with a few private lessons to build confidence, then transitioning to groups.

  • Returning or casual riders may enjoy the energy and camaraderie of a group.

  • Focused riders with specific goals (like showing, dressage, jumping, or building new skills) may prefer private instruction.

At White Fences, we offer both options and are happy to help you find the perfect fit based on your riding level, goals, and personality.

5. What can I expect to learn in my first few lessons?
In your first few riding lessons, you’ll focus on building a strong foundation of basic riding skills. You’ll learn how to groom, tack and untack, mount and dismount safely, how to hold the reins correctly, how to steer and stop your horse, and how to maintain balance while riding.

6. How often should I take riding lessons?
The frequency of your riding lessons will depend on your schedule and goals, as well as the requirements of the trainer that is teaching you. For beginners, we recommend taking at least sixe lessons per month, this helps the reinforcement of skills between lessons. As you progress, you may choose to increase the frequency of your lessons.

We hope this blog post has answered some of your burning questions about beginner riding lessons! Remember, the most important thing is to have fun, stay safe, and enjoy your time in the saddle. Happy riding!  If you have more questions please check out our FAQ page, contact us or call us 512.865.8281. We are always ready to help.