Trail Horse Training

Finding a Good Horse Trainer and Instructor

Finding a good, qualified trainer can help you train a young horse, break an old horse of bad habits, help you reconnect with your current horse, or move forward in finding a perfect match for your future.

The Trainer

Look first for qualifications. Has the trainer been through a well-known course resulting in certification from a training facility? Has the trainer worked in the area where you need help? How long has that trainer worked with horses? You wouldn't ask a dressage specialist to work with your five year old child and a new pony: you'd probably want to find someone who specializes in ponies and children. Ask for references, or get referrals from your farrier or your trusted vet. And, as in any case where you will be working with someone professionally, it isimportant that you like and trust that person. If you don't "click" with a trainer, you may want to keep looking. If the trainer handles your horse in ways that make you nervous, consider trying someone else.

The Instructor

Most trainers are instructors and if you are lucky, they will train your horse and will then work with you. But if you are not in this situation and are just looking for instruction, the most important rules for riding lessons are that they should be safe and fun, and you should be comfortable with the instructor’s personality. If these things are missing, you haven’t found the right instructor. There are a variety of disciplines, divided into two types: Western and English. There are more choices within those two styles. For instance, English includes jumpers, hunt seat, and eventing. Western offers gymkana, pleasure, reining, and more.

Type of Riding

Determine what type of riding you want to do. Even if you are out on the trail, there are instructors that will help you with learning tips and tricks for every day riding. The easiest way to choose your type is to evaluate your interests. Do you want to jump? Then you should take English instruction. If galloping through the woods over stone walls appeals to you, go to an Event instructor, or a Dressage trainer if you like the idea of "ballet" on horseback. Do you think you'd enjoy games like barrel racing ? Then you want to ride Western. Many people learn more than one discipline before finding their niche. The more you learn, the better a rider you become.

Look for a Good Facility

Once you have decided what style you'd like to ride, look for a good facility. Don't just telephone barns - visit them. Look at the horses used in the riding program. Are they taken care of? Ask questions about the horses to ensure that you will be matched with a horse at your level. If you're shopping for lessons for a child, don't assume that because the barn is stocked with ponies, they're all good beginner horses. Ponies can be unruly, and don't necessarily make the best rides. When you visit barns, make sure safety is paramount. A good teaching facility will have a firm helmet rule. This means everyone is required to wear a helmet when mounted. Don't accept the excuse that, because he or she is a "professional," they don't need a helmet. This is like saying that a good driver doesn't need a seatbelt. And it's certainly not the message to send to students . Also, some instructors will travel to local areas to teach. In those cases, the lessons may be a little more expensive, but well worth it to work with your own horse on your own property or at the barn you are boarding at.

Observe the Instructors

Spend a few hours observing a teacher you are considering and you can save considerable time and money in the long run. An instructor who screams at students, berates them or is condescending is not the one you want. Talk with the instructors about the lesson program, riding style and student goals. Then, make arrangements to watch a lesson or two with someone at your riding level before signing on. Don't assume that a good rider automatically makes a good teacher. A good instructor doesn't just shout directions; he or she explains why it is important to keep your heels down or your eyes up. It's much easier to do something when you know the reason for it. And there are some very basic riding rules that do not come naturally to us physically but are vital to correct riding.

Question Instructor's Experience

Don't be afraid to question the instructor's experience or background when you research lessons. Some states, such as Massachusetts, require instructors to be certified. Ask for referrals from an instructor's students before you hire the person. If you are considering riding lessons for a child, avoid group lessons if the child is under the age of seven. No matter how good the instructor may be, it only takes a moment when she turns away to observe another student for the one behind her to get into trouble. Although private lessons may be slightly more expensive, it's well worth it from a safety standpoint for this age group. In general, taking the time to choose a suitable riding instructor can help you enjoy a lifetime with horses.