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How to Find a Qualified Horseback Riding Instructor

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By thehorsecoach
User-Submitted Article
(3 Ratings)
Kids Love Horses
Kids Love Horses

If you or your child wants to taking horseback riding lessons, you'll need to find a qualified riding instructor. Many parents just sign up for lessons at the first stable they find in the Yellow Pages, but why trust your child to just anyone for this dangerous sport?

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Make a list of the stables and barns in your area, particularly those that advertise horseback riding lessons on the Internet or in the phone book. If you've received a recommendation from a friend, put a star next to that barn's name.

  2. Step 2

    Visit each stable on your list during regular horseback riding lesson hours. This is usually between 4pm and 6pm on weekdays. You'll want to observe the horseback riding instructors while they are teaching to get a feel for their expertise.

  3. Step 3

    Learn as much about horseback riding lessons as you can so you'll understand what you observed at the lessons you watched. Were the instructors paying attention? Did the horses and students look happy and healthy? Did the instructor's orders sound reasonable?

  4. Step 4

    Sign up for a single horseback riding lesson at the stables that impressed you the most. You don't want to sign up for a full month of lessons until you decide which barn is the best, and which instructors are the most qualified.

  5. Step 5

    Keep an open (but scrutinizing) mind. If the quality of the horseback riding lessons decreases over time, it might be a good idea to find another equestrian facility. If your child is the one in the lessons, attend every session to make sure he or she is being cared for.

Tips & Warnings
  • Ask if the horseback riding instructor is certified by the ARIA (American Riding Instructor's Association).
  • Inquire about the barn's accident history. How many students have been hurt over the last five years?

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