How to Build a Wood Fence Horse Riding Arena

Choose a suitable spot for your riding arena

No matter what breed of horse you own or what style of riding you prefer, having a suitable riding area is necessary to be able to work a horse effectively. Building a suitable location for riding can be a challenge, but it's one most DIYers can accomplish.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Post hole digger
• Posts
• Shovel
• Concrete mix
• Water
• Wheelbarrow
• Level
• Wooden boards
• Hammer or nail gun
• Nails
• Metal gate and hinges

Instructions

1. Measure the area for the riding arena. An area 100 to 150 feet long and 60 to 80 feet wide is recommended for most training and basic riding. The area needs to be as flat as possible. Excavate and grade the ground until it is as level as possible. Remove any rocks and debris that could be dangerous to horse and rider.

2. Dig post holes 8 feet apart with a tractor-mounted or gas-powered post-hole digger. Mix the concrete mix and water in a wheelbarrow.

3. Set the first post firmly in place at least two feet deep. Back fill the hole with concrete to secure the posts.

4. Continue digging post holes, setting posts and filling post holes with concrete until all posts are set around perimeter of arena. Allow concrete to set overnight or according to manufacturer's directions.

5. Nail the first board to one of the posts with the nail gun or a hammer. Hold the board against the next post and place a level on top of the board. Check for level, raising or lowering the unnailed end of the board until level. Nail board into second post.

6. Measure 12 to 18 inches down from the first board. Repeat nailing and leveling process. Place a third board 12 to 18 inches below the second (optional but recommended) and secure in place using the same process.

7. Continue nailing the boards in place around the perimeter of the arena. Set metal gate on gate posts at entrance to arena. Screw hinges into posts and gate with screws and screw gun.

References

• Building a Riding Ring