Please help me understand what type of riding I want to do/ what type of instructor I want
July 19, 2011 1:53 PM Subscribe
Help me choose a horseback riding style (or help me understand what to watch for in finding an instructor) according to why I want to ride.
Hello all!
A little background: When I was young I used to admire horses a lot and dreamed of doing horseback riding. Because of the cost and distance (I'm in a big city), though, my parents weren't too keen on letting me pursue that hobby. I did have the chance to do a one week camp when I was about 10, that included lessons and taking care of the horses, and did some trails when traveling but not much more than that.
Recently, I've decided, now that I have my driving license and more money of my own, to finally indulge in that little dream of mine. However, when browsing schools around my area I was kind of put off by the competitive or almost elitist aspect of a lot of the accredited schools... Some of them also really seemed geared at making kids compete really intensely, in that same elitist mood (it's kind of hard to describe... but it does make me think a little bit of my little sister's intense dancing school, where parents pay enormous amounts of money for the classes, the costumes, DVDs, and all that jazz, but are so proud to do it and of their kids and seem to have created a little community of their own). Anyways. I don't mind the kids, let them compete if they want to compete, it's just that I'm having a hard time finding what I'm looking for: a professional place, to learn how to ride WITH the horse, respecting it and having a certain humility towards it. Basically, I'm looking to learn more about the subtleties of language and communication with the horse while riding it (and not riding it) rather than use it for my own pride/accomplishments/race winning.
Which brings my question to this: is what I'm looking for a particular style (are there any styles besides English or Western? I learned English)? Or maybe more a style of instructor/school? How can I recognize said school or teacher when I continue my research?
I'm already going through schools by CH and FEQ (canadian and quebec accreditations, respectively) accredited teachers. I'm also comfortable around and on horses (I've read on horseback riding threads here from other adults that they are insecure/afraid). I'm 20 years old and live in Montreal, Quebec, in case that's important.
(On preview: I just want to be around people that love and respect the horses as much as I do and prioritize the relationship with the horse before or in equal terms with the competitive aspect of horseback riding. I'm guessing that to be there 24/7 for them one must feel that way, and the competing must demand a very good comprehension of the horse, so maybe I should look past the competitive aspect I wrote about, and maybe I'm seeing it as more negative than it is; but if there IS another option or if anyone has experience with this, I'd like to know about it)
Thank you!! :)
Hello all!
A little background: When I was young I used to admire horses a lot and dreamed of doing horseback riding. Because of the cost and distance (I'm in a big city), though, my parents weren't too keen on letting me pursue that hobby. I did have the chance to do a one week camp when I was about 10, that included lessons and taking care of the horses, and did some trails when traveling but not much more than that.
Recently, I've decided, now that I have my driving license and more money of my own, to finally indulge in that little dream of mine. However, when browsing schools around my area I was kind of put off by the competitive or almost elitist aspect of a lot of the accredited schools... Some of them also really seemed geared at making kids compete really intensely, in that same elitist mood (it's kind of hard to describe... but it does make me think a little bit of my little sister's intense dancing school, where parents pay enormous amounts of money for the classes, the costumes, DVDs, and all that jazz, but are so proud to do it and of their kids and seem to have created a little community of their own). Anyways. I don't mind the kids, let them compete if they want to compete, it's just that I'm having a hard time finding what I'm looking for: a professional place, to learn how to ride WITH the horse, respecting it and having a certain humility towards it. Basically, I'm looking to learn more about the subtleties of language and communication with the horse while riding it (and not riding it) rather than use it for my own pride/accomplishments/race winning.
Which brings my question to this: is what I'm looking for a particular style (are there any styles besides English or Western? I learned English)? Or maybe more a style of instructor/school? How can I recognize said school or teacher when I continue my research?
I'm already going through schools by CH and FEQ (canadian and quebec accreditations, respectively) accredited teachers. I'm also comfortable around and on horses (I've read on horseback riding threads here from other adults that they are insecure/afraid). I'm 20 years old and live in Montreal, Quebec, in case that's important.
(On preview: I just want to be around people that love and respect the horses as much as I do and prioritize the relationship with the horse before or in equal terms with the competitive aspect of horseback riding. I'm guessing that to be there 24/7 for them one must feel that way, and the competing must demand a very good comprehension of the horse, so maybe I should look past the competitive aspect I wrote about, and maybe I'm seeing it as more negative than it is; but if there IS another option or if anyone has experience with this, I'd like to know about it)
Thank you!! :)
I think that your "on preview" is perfectly right: to be a good competitor you have to be a good rider, and being a good rider involves understanding the horse and connecting with it. I would definitely not worry about that aspect of things.
What you should be looking at is the relationship of the riders. Are they friendly with each other, or are they so competitive within the school that there is constant tension? Do they support each other? These are things that you won't be able to judge from a website, but I would encourage you to have an introductory lesson at each of the stables that you are interested in. Go an hour early and watch the lesson before yours. Listen to the people's conversations in the viewing area. Are they critiquing each others' friends/family members? You'll know very quickly if the community is one that you would enjoy joining.
On preview, I agree with violetk: riding well is about the relationship with the horse, so if the riders at a school are good riders, it means that they were taught to connect with their horses well.
posted by snoogles at 2:08 PM on July 19, 2011
What you should be looking at is the relationship of the riders. Are they friendly with each other, or are they so competitive within the school that there is constant tension? Do they support each other? These are things that you won't be able to judge from a website, but I would encourage you to have an introductory lesson at each of the stables that you are interested in. Go an hour early and watch the lesson before yours. Listen to the people's conversations in the viewing area. Are they critiquing each others' friends/family members? You'll know very quickly if the community is one that you would enjoy joining.
On preview, I agree with violetk: riding well is about the relationship with the horse, so if the riders at a school are good riders, it means that they were taught to connect with their horses well.
posted by snoogles at 2:08 PM on July 19, 2011
I was very fortunate a million years ago when I was in college, they offered horseback riding as part of the Phys. Ed. program. I took multiple semesters. It was a nice "hands on" survey of both English and Western styles, plus grooming, basic health care, feeding, etc. I came out loving Western riding--specifically trail riding and did that casually for many years until I got old and fat.
If you can find some kind of "Horsemanship" program in your area, that would be a good start. Our local Humane Society offers such a course.
I think for the casual rider, Western/Trail riding is a very good choice--but I'm sure the English/Dressage folks will have an equally strong bias towards their favorite form.
There are myriad things you can do with a horse once you decide how committed you want to be. On the Western side there is barrel racing, cutting, endurance riding...and on and on...
posted by agatha_magatha at 2:10 PM on July 19, 2011
If you can find some kind of "Horsemanship" program in your area, that would be a good start. Our local Humane Society offers such a course.
I think for the casual rider, Western/Trail riding is a very good choice--but I'm sure the English/Dressage folks will have an equally strong bias towards their favorite form.
There are myriad things you can do with a horse once you decide how committed you want to be. On the Western side there is barrel racing, cutting, endurance riding...and on and on...
posted by agatha_magatha at 2:10 PM on July 19, 2011
There are riding stables out there that don't treat horses with respect and care: they often end up getting citations for animal abuse and neglect or shut down. You sound very concerned about these places not loving horses as much as you do; I find that very hard to believe. Horses are expensive and these places are making money by keeping the horses safe and healthy.
As for where to go there are some specialized styles like dressage, but at the beginner level there is pretty much English and western. Choose as you will, I am definitely more partial to english as I'm not a big trail rider. Lots of places here (California) will let you work at the stable in exchange for a break in the cost so if you really want the full experience as you say you might want to ask around about that.
posted by boobjob at 2:26 PM on July 19, 2011
As for where to go there are some specialized styles like dressage, but at the beginner level there is pretty much English and western. Choose as you will, I am definitely more partial to english as I'm not a big trail rider. Lots of places here (California) will let you work at the stable in exchange for a break in the cost so if you really want the full experience as you say you might want to ask around about that.
posted by boobjob at 2:26 PM on July 19, 2011
I rode when I was growing up. I had a horse of my own and boarded her at a equestrian facility. I was about 12 when I got my horse. There were quite a few other girls around my age that rode and did the show thing. I was never interested very much in showing. I just didn't care for it, not my thing. Most of my friends showed however. But we were all the best of friends and no one cared one bit if I showed or not. I would show every once and again, just for the heck of it. It was fun winning some ribbons, as of course winning is always fun. But, for me, the hassle of it all wasn't worth me doing weekend after weekend. Anyway . . .
I know what you're talking about with uber competitive places. The place I rode was pretty middle of the road with competitiveness. We had a good portion of people that showed extensively and an equally good portion that wasn't interested in showing. But I knew of some places that really did have the push to compete and the drama between riders. That eventually got old and there was a huge influx to my barn of riders from other barns that were sick of the drama and the pressure to compete.
Like snoogles (above) said, look at the riders. Are they friendly with each other? Or is there a lot of drama? You do want to find a place that allows you to ride the way you want - whether competitively or not and not pressure you. Perhaps take some tours of places and see how the other riders interact with each other.
This is my advice: take a few lessons from places that you're interested in. Tour the facilities, ask questions. See how riders interact with each other. Let the instructors know that you're not interested in showing. They'll let you know if that's important or not. A few years ago I looked into getting back into riding and visited a bunch of places. I was upfront that I was not interested in showing - just in hanging with horses and mastering my riding. Many were ok with that, some were not - they were only interested in making sure I would show and represent their barn.
And, remember, if one place doesn't work for you, you can always go elsewhere.
As for styles of riding - I rode English, so I'm very biased. I liked learning how to post, how to jump, elements of dressage. It was just what I liked. I've ridden Western and I like it (I even own an Western saddle!). But I like it for trail riding. I think it really depends on your personality and what you want to accomplish in riding. Do you want to mainly trail ride? Barrel race? Cutting? Roping? Do those things appeal to you? If so, do Western. Or do you want to jump? Or do dressage work? Then give English a try. Then there's always endurance riding . . .
And remember, if you try one style and don't like it - then try another style! Most places can get you going as a beginner in pretty much any style. The place I rode was primarily English, but the instructors were able to teach beginning Western.
posted by Sassyfras at 2:39 PM on July 19, 2011 [1 favorite]
I know what you're talking about with uber competitive places. The place I rode was pretty middle of the road with competitiveness. We had a good portion of people that showed extensively and an equally good portion that wasn't interested in showing. But I knew of some places that really did have the push to compete and the drama between riders. That eventually got old and there was a huge influx to my barn of riders from other barns that were sick of the drama and the pressure to compete.
Like snoogles (above) said, look at the riders. Are they friendly with each other? Or is there a lot of drama? You do want to find a place that allows you to ride the way you want - whether competitively or not and not pressure you. Perhaps take some tours of places and see how the other riders interact with each other.
This is my advice: take a few lessons from places that you're interested in. Tour the facilities, ask questions. See how riders interact with each other. Let the instructors know that you're not interested in showing. They'll let you know if that's important or not. A few years ago I looked into getting back into riding and visited a bunch of places. I was upfront that I was not interested in showing - just in hanging with horses and mastering my riding. Many were ok with that, some were not - they were only interested in making sure I would show and represent their barn.
And, remember, if one place doesn't work for you, you can always go elsewhere.
As for styles of riding - I rode English, so I'm very biased. I liked learning how to post, how to jump, elements of dressage. It was just what I liked. I've ridden Western and I like it (I even own an Western saddle!). But I like it for trail riding. I think it really depends on your personality and what you want to accomplish in riding. Do you want to mainly trail ride? Barrel race? Cutting? Roping? Do those things appeal to you? If so, do Western. Or do you want to jump? Or do dressage work? Then give English a try. Then there's always endurance riding . . .
And remember, if you try one style and don't like it - then try another style! Most places can get you going as a beginner in pretty much any style. The place I rode was primarily English, but the instructors were able to teach beginning Western.
posted by Sassyfras at 2:39 PM on July 19, 2011 [1 favorite]
Go visit; you'll find out quickly if the stable is not nice to their animals. The Horse Whisperer approach is hard to quantify, but you'll find that most people at a riding stable love horses a lot, but may not be able to talk about their relationship to horses in a way that will answer your questions. Most places should let you take a tour and observe. doing that will be fun anyway.
posted by theora55 at 3:11 PM on July 19, 2011
posted by theora55 at 3:11 PM on July 19, 2011
If you learn English, you can always ride Western. If you learn Western, it's harder to get the subtleties of English. Western is much more comfortable for long rides, but I tend to think those who learn English first are better riders on the whole.
(I learned bareback first, then English, and have never had a problem with Western.)
posted by klangklangston at 3:19 PM on July 19, 2011
(I learned bareback first, then English, and have never had a problem with Western.)
posted by klangklangston at 3:19 PM on July 19, 2011
I agree with the suggestion to take introductory lessons. The more, the better.
In terms of "pressure to show", this varies by stable but ultimately lies more in your confidence as a recreational rider in the context of competitive riders. If you don't care or want to, they can't force you to compete. Also, lest we demonize the show culture too much, keep in mind that a real stable is a business - one with a thin margin, at that - and much important revenue is gained in trucking, horse prep/rental and coaching fees at these events.
In terms of "style", I think your questions is touch misguided. First, there aren't a huge number of mainstream disciplines. You could partition English into Dressage, hunt seat, saddleseat and sidesaddle (apologies for things I've no doubt forgotten), throw in different applications of Western from trail riding (also English, so not discrete) to calf roping to barrel racing and maybe characterize polo, race-riding and endurance riding as their own disciplines. Perhaps the question you are really asking yourself is: in what atmosphere do I want to pursue my equestrian interests?
Based on your post, I'll infer the answer you seek is based more on the type of people than the actual physical details. This brings us back to the original advice, to sample many stables. In addition, based on sweeping generalities and my inherent biases, I would refer to common stereotypes that Western is more laidback than English. Of course, that would be willfully ignoring some pretty intense barrel racing, flagrant one-upsmanship in showmanship classes and a conspicuously "bling" show culture among breed associations...but I haven't been in the space for many years, so take it with a grain of salt.
A few creative suggestions: 1) Volunteer with a therapeutic riding program or other equine-related nonprofit. You'll likely meet some pretty cool, down-to-earth and relatively selfless people. Maybe that barn also has some casual riders you can join up with, or the horse people you meet and like can give you more informed recommendations on where to ride. 2) Do you hunter pace? I grew up in New England where this was a common event, not sure if it is in Canada. Hunter paces were generally relaxed, exciting group events that had an element of competition that was superseded by an element of fun. They also didn't require fancy (expensive) attire, mounts or training. 3) Is there a Canadian version of 4-H? I know that 4-H can get out of hand like any other youth group, but I did it for years, loved it and found the nice people far outnumbered the insufferable Horse Snobs. You're too old to participate but you could definitely volunteer, and in doing so would likely meet people whose recommendation for barns you would value.
Sorry you've been bitten by the horse bug, it will be a long and expensive disease to treat. ;-) Good luck!
posted by keasby at 3:20 PM on July 19, 2011 [1 favorite]
In terms of "pressure to show", this varies by stable but ultimately lies more in your confidence as a recreational rider in the context of competitive riders. If you don't care or want to, they can't force you to compete. Also, lest we demonize the show culture too much, keep in mind that a real stable is a business - one with a thin margin, at that - and much important revenue is gained in trucking, horse prep/rental and coaching fees at these events.
In terms of "style", I think your questions is touch misguided. First, there aren't a huge number of mainstream disciplines. You could partition English into Dressage, hunt seat, saddleseat and sidesaddle (apologies for things I've no doubt forgotten), throw in different applications of Western from trail riding (also English, so not discrete) to calf roping to barrel racing and maybe characterize polo, race-riding and endurance riding as their own disciplines. Perhaps the question you are really asking yourself is: in what atmosphere do I want to pursue my equestrian interests?
Based on your post, I'll infer the answer you seek is based more on the type of people than the actual physical details. This brings us back to the original advice, to sample many stables. In addition, based on sweeping generalities and my inherent biases, I would refer to common stereotypes that Western is more laidback than English. Of course, that would be willfully ignoring some pretty intense barrel racing, flagrant one-upsmanship in showmanship classes and a conspicuously "bling" show culture among breed associations...but I haven't been in the space for many years, so take it with a grain of salt.
A few creative suggestions: 1) Volunteer with a therapeutic riding program or other equine-related nonprofit. You'll likely meet some pretty cool, down-to-earth and relatively selfless people. Maybe that barn also has some casual riders you can join up with, or the horse people you meet and like can give you more informed recommendations on where to ride. 2) Do you hunter pace? I grew up in New England where this was a common event, not sure if it is in Canada. Hunter paces were generally relaxed, exciting group events that had an element of competition that was superseded by an element of fun. They also didn't require fancy (expensive) attire, mounts or training. 3) Is there a Canadian version of 4-H? I know that 4-H can get out of hand like any other youth group, but I did it for years, loved it and found the nice people far outnumbered the insufferable Horse Snobs. You're too old to participate but you could definitely volunteer, and in doing so would likely meet people whose recommendation for barns you would value.
Sorry you've been bitten by the horse bug, it will be a long and expensive disease to treat. ;-) Good luck!
posted by keasby at 3:20 PM on July 19, 2011 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: Thanks a lot for the answers everyone! Yes, I think observing the interactions between the people at the stable is a good idea, thanks for the tip! Thanks for comforting me about the competition aspect too :) If anyone has other tips let me know!
(@ violetk: ouch, it seems my weird second language english phrasing didn't get through right :P (on my defense, I did try to review like 10 times before posting to make sure everything came out as I intended it to be but I guess that's an epic fail haha)... I feel that you didn't read my "on preview" comment to the end, because that's basically what I wrote there. I certainly wasn't implying the riders are abusive people who don't give a s*** about the horses, I was explaining that I was concerned about the school's priorities not fitting with mine, because some schools' competitiveness seemed very aggressive and was scaring me off. If you compete, I certainly didn't wan't to imply you don't care about your horse, and I'm sorry if anything I said made you angry.)
posted by kitsuloukos at 3:24 PM on July 19, 2011
(@ violetk: ouch, it seems my weird second language english phrasing didn't get through right :P (on my defense, I did try to review like 10 times before posting to make sure everything came out as I intended it to be but I guess that's an epic fail haha)... I feel that you didn't read my "on preview" comment to the end, because that's basically what I wrote there. I certainly wasn't implying the riders are abusive people who don't give a s*** about the horses, I was explaining that I was concerned about the school's priorities not fitting with mine, because some schools' competitiveness seemed very aggressive and was scaring me off. If you compete, I certainly didn't wan't to imply you don't care about your horse, and I'm sorry if anything I said made you angry.)
posted by kitsuloukos at 3:24 PM on July 19, 2011
Response by poster: (oups didn't do preview before posting, and tons of new suggestions! Thanks everybody!! keasby you've named so many different things I'm just really excited to go check them all out! This is going to be fun :D Oh, and keep the answers coming everyone if you have any more suggestions!)
posted by kitsuloukos at 3:31 PM on July 19, 2011
posted by kitsuloukos at 3:31 PM on July 19, 2011
Natural Dressage is pretty amazing. It is all about the connection to the horse.
My brother in law (while too far away to learn from) has an amazing take on it here.
It might be a direction you want to go in.
posted by Vaike at 4:26 PM on July 19, 2011
My brother in law (while too far away to learn from) has an amazing take on it here.
It might be a direction you want to go in.
posted by Vaike at 4:26 PM on July 19, 2011
(also, feel free to contact him directly. He travels and teaches extensively, and so might know people in your area.)
posted by Vaike at 4:28 PM on July 19, 2011
posted by Vaike at 4:28 PM on July 19, 2011
Learn both English and Western. They each have their uses. I personally prefer English, but if you ever want to take friends trail riding, odds are you will not find a horse at a trail stable that's been trained for English riding.
I will agree that learning English first, and Western second* is the better route to go. Also, try to ride different breeds. I rode nothing but Paso Finos for over 20 years and got completely spoiled on their smooth gait.
And if you really want to learn a deep connection with your horse, be as involved as you can with the animal's care. I grew up with horses and it's the memories of caring for the horses -- mucking out stables, tending to injuries, grooming, feeding and watering before I could have my own meals, washing my horse down before I could have the luxury of my own shower, spending the night sleeping on a hay bale waiting for a foal to be born -- that stay with me more than the riding itself.
* A note, though: When you first start learning Western, you will be pegged as an English rider. Be prepared for some ribbing about "heels down!" from the other Western riders.
posted by Wossname at 4:49 PM on July 19, 2011 [1 favorite]
I will agree that learning English first, and Western second* is the better route to go. Also, try to ride different breeds. I rode nothing but Paso Finos for over 20 years and got completely spoiled on their smooth gait.
And if you really want to learn a deep connection with your horse, be as involved as you can with the animal's care. I grew up with horses and it's the memories of caring for the horses -- mucking out stables, tending to injuries, grooming, feeding and watering before I could have my own meals, washing my horse down before I could have the luxury of my own shower, spending the night sleeping on a hay bale waiting for a foal to be born -- that stay with me more than the riding itself.
* A note, though: When you first start learning Western, you will be pegged as an English rider. Be prepared for some ribbing about "heels down!" from the other Western riders.
posted by Wossname at 4:49 PM on July 19, 2011 [1 favorite]
They don't call 'em dressage "queens" for nuthin'! (I love dressage, just don't like many of the people involved.)
Get three horse people in a room, and you'll have 17 different opinions, with much arguing about the right discipline, breed, natural/traditional training, barefoot/shod--on and on and on.
There's also a certain subset that thrives on drama and gossip. They're poison to be around.
Mostly the ones that talk continually and know it all aren't out riding.
Try lessons at each and every barn you can, and keep your eyes and ears open. Don't worry about 'natural' just look for happy healthy horses. I get flack for riding barefoot until my horses need shoes and occasionally having chips in their feet, as well as bringing them in all sweated up in the summer. Funny enough, my five geldings come in off the 40+ acre field when I call them and are super easy to catch. They LIKE going for rides and hanging out with me.
Try English. Try Western. Eventually you will find what you truly want to pursue. Look for people (and horses) you enjoy being around. Have fun!
posted by BlueHorse at 5:27 PM on July 19, 2011
Get three horse people in a room, and you'll have 17 different opinions, with much arguing about the right discipline, breed, natural/traditional training, barefoot/shod--on and on and on.
There's also a certain subset that thrives on drama and gossip. They're poison to be around.
Mostly the ones that talk continually and know it all aren't out riding.
Try lessons at each and every barn you can, and keep your eyes and ears open. Don't worry about 'natural' just look for happy healthy horses. I get flack for riding barefoot until my horses need shoes and occasionally having chips in their feet, as well as bringing them in all sweated up in the summer. Funny enough, my five geldings come in off the 40+ acre field when I call them and are super easy to catch. They LIKE going for rides and hanging out with me.
Try English. Try Western. Eventually you will find what you truly want to pursue. Look for people (and horses) you enjoy being around. Have fun!
posted by BlueHorse at 5:27 PM on July 19, 2011
Before you go looking at stables, please make sure you know what a "good"/clean/healthy stable looks like. We had one rider once who was Very Concerned because her (lesson) horse was muddy, mane and tail tangled, etc., every time she came in. Horses are like little kids, if there's any way to get dirty.... (Plus it is the rider's job to groom.) Similarly, people are sometimes shocked by how dirty stalls can get, when I know it's less than half a day's worth of manure.
Horses generally shouldn't show signs of major diseases (no big bald patches, most horses not seriously skinny, most horses not seriously overweight, you can see a few ribs but not have hip bones poking out, or maybe be a bit "thicker" but not obese--some horses will always be skinnier and some always fatter). Horses actually being worked should be clean (stains are OK, but no actual mud/dirt on the horse, mane and tail not TOO tangled and no debris in mane/tail). Horses in fields shouldn't have saddle marks (sweat stains). Summer is a good time to look for this stuff, since a winter coat hides a lot.
Barn should be "barn clean". Manure that's laying around in stalls or traveled areas should be fresh/recent, not tons of old (dried out, starting to rot) manure sitting around except on the manure pile. (Old manure in fields is OK, although they should use a spreader once in a while.)
Buckets and troughs shouldn't have serious green growing things in them (hay in them is OK). All stalls where horses are left should have water buckets, an effort should be made to keep water in these.
Tack room should show some attempt at organization. Tack should be on the racks, neatly so that it looks "right", not hanging any old way. Tack or racks should be labeled. Most horses should have their own tack, not share tack.
There should be brushes for grooming. At a minimum: Curry comb, hard brush, hoof pick. Ideally a couple more, like a soft brush and a mane and tail comb. Ideally every horse would have their own set of brushes, but I'm willing to bend on this one.
There should be someone available while inexperienced riders are grooming and tacking, in order to answer questions (not to do it for you).
There should be a fly control scheme, either fly spray available or an explanation of why not (horse is allergic, fly predators, etc.). There will still be flies regardless. Ideally there should be a cat. There will still be mice regardless, but hopefully not many (mice should run away when they see you).
posted by anaelith at 5:28 PM on July 19, 2011 [2 favorites]
Horses generally shouldn't show signs of major diseases (no big bald patches, most horses not seriously skinny, most horses not seriously overweight, you can see a few ribs but not have hip bones poking out, or maybe be a bit "thicker" but not obese--some horses will always be skinnier and some always fatter). Horses actually being worked should be clean (stains are OK, but no actual mud/dirt on the horse, mane and tail not TOO tangled and no debris in mane/tail). Horses in fields shouldn't have saddle marks (sweat stains). Summer is a good time to look for this stuff, since a winter coat hides a lot.
Barn should be "barn clean". Manure that's laying around in stalls or traveled areas should be fresh/recent, not tons of old (dried out, starting to rot) manure sitting around except on the manure pile. (Old manure in fields is OK, although they should use a spreader once in a while.)
Buckets and troughs shouldn't have serious green growing things in them (hay in them is OK). All stalls where horses are left should have water buckets, an effort should be made to keep water in these.
Tack room should show some attempt at organization. Tack should be on the racks, neatly so that it looks "right", not hanging any old way. Tack or racks should be labeled. Most horses should have their own tack, not share tack.
There should be brushes for grooming. At a minimum: Curry comb, hard brush, hoof pick. Ideally a couple more, like a soft brush and a mane and tail comb. Ideally every horse would have their own set of brushes, but I'm willing to bend on this one.
There should be someone available while inexperienced riders are grooming and tacking, in order to answer questions (not to do it for you).
There should be a fly control scheme, either fly spray available or an explanation of why not (horse is allergic, fly predators, etc.). There will still be flies regardless. Ideally there should be a cat. There will still be mice regardless, but hopefully not many (mice should run away when they see you).
posted by anaelith at 5:28 PM on July 19, 2011 [2 favorites]
What everybody else said, try different barns. Just like regular teachers have different personalities, same with riding instructors. Some are brutal, some are useless, some are just right. Some have annoying schedules or are constantly late.
Some barns have indoor rings to ride in (bonus where you live), some have riding trails nearby (bonus, fun). Some are in beg equestrian centers with different trainers at one facility -- that's nice because you can switch easy once you see that after 5 lessons you really like how that OTHER trainer trains her students or whatever (don't plan on taking from multiple instructors at the same facility at the same time though, that's frowned upon).
Also, after you kind of see which barn you like, an important thing (and this is going to sound wierd) is to make sure that the other riders are generally in the same socio-economic class as you. When I rode as a teenager, it seemed like that was a pretty clear demarcation between the different barns.
Also, you can switch barns after awhile, with little penalty in lost time or seniority or anything.
Also, I say, ride english. :-) The saddles are more comfortable and you get to jump (eventually) if you want. Or you can go into Dressage or three day eventing or endurance riding.
As far as your desire to go to an 'accredited' stable, that must be either a regional thing or a new thing. I'm getting pretty old now! Anyway, not sure that's really a huge factor as a beginner, unless the accreditation is like restaurant health ratings. ;-)
Just go in and wander around and see if people smile and welcome you or look at you suspiciously. As someone said above, go and sit and watch a few lessons (probably ask first). If they don't let you, you don't want to ride there probably. Also, you could ask in the local feed/tack stores about the reputations the various barns have -- if you'd like to avoid the more hyper-competitive barns, they'll know which ones those are.
Also, go see the movie Buck if you haven't already!
posted by bluesky78987 at 7:06 PM on July 19, 2011
Some barns have indoor rings to ride in (bonus where you live), some have riding trails nearby (bonus, fun). Some are in beg equestrian centers with different trainers at one facility -- that's nice because you can switch easy once you see that after 5 lessons you really like how that OTHER trainer trains her students or whatever (don't plan on taking from multiple instructors at the same facility at the same time though, that's frowned upon).
Also, after you kind of see which barn you like, an important thing (and this is going to sound wierd) is to make sure that the other riders are generally in the same socio-economic class as you. When I rode as a teenager, it seemed like that was a pretty clear demarcation between the different barns.
Also, you can switch barns after awhile, with little penalty in lost time or seniority or anything.
Also, I say, ride english. :-) The saddles are more comfortable and you get to jump (eventually) if you want. Or you can go into Dressage or three day eventing or endurance riding.
As far as your desire to go to an 'accredited' stable, that must be either a regional thing or a new thing. I'm getting pretty old now! Anyway, not sure that's really a huge factor as a beginner, unless the accreditation is like restaurant health ratings. ;-)
Just go in and wander around and see if people smile and welcome you or look at you suspiciously. As someone said above, go and sit and watch a few lessons (probably ask first). If they don't let you, you don't want to ride there probably. Also, you could ask in the local feed/tack stores about the reputations the various barns have -- if you'd like to avoid the more hyper-competitive barns, they'll know which ones those are.
Also, go see the movie Buck if you haven't already!
posted by bluesky78987 at 7:06 PM on July 19, 2011
So as a lifelong horseback rider and competitor, I have to disagree with some of the advice here. You absolutely do not sound "holier than thou" to me. I know exactly the kinds of barns you are talking about and even though I compete I don't want to ride in those barns either. Trust your instincts on this.
Based on your description of wanting to achieve subtle communication with the horse, I would highly encourage you to look in to dressage. If you think you might be interested in jumping someday, you can also try eventing trainers. Dressage is one of three phases of eventing, and cross country and stadium jumping are the other two.
I also want to add that riding styles are so much more complex than English and Western. I started out as a hunter rider and did hunter/jumper until my early teen years. Now I event, and I have spent the last 12 years trying to fix a lot of bad habits I picked up in the hunter ring. Things that are okay to do as a hunter make me ineffective as an eventer, and interfere with my ability to communicate with my horse. In other words, the choice you make now really can matter if you stick with riding.
However, despite everything I have said, I would agree that you should pick the barn where you feel the most comfortable. While I think you would really like dressage, you won't like it at all if you can't find a good trainer with horses that are appropriate for your riding level.
Finally, you also want to choose a barn where horsemanship can be a part of your regular lessons. Make sure that you will get to tack and untack the horse yourself (with help at first), rather than being handed a groomed and tacked up horse, and look for a trainer that seems willing to talk about other aspects of horse care with you. Riding is a lot more fun and meaningful when you get to learn more about your horse.
posted by horses, of courses at 8:43 PM on July 19, 2011
Based on your description of wanting to achieve subtle communication with the horse, I would highly encourage you to look in to dressage. If you think you might be interested in jumping someday, you can also try eventing trainers. Dressage is one of three phases of eventing, and cross country and stadium jumping are the other two.
I also want to add that riding styles are so much more complex than English and Western. I started out as a hunter rider and did hunter/jumper until my early teen years. Now I event, and I have spent the last 12 years trying to fix a lot of bad habits I picked up in the hunter ring. Things that are okay to do as a hunter make me ineffective as an eventer, and interfere with my ability to communicate with my horse. In other words, the choice you make now really can matter if you stick with riding.
However, despite everything I have said, I would agree that you should pick the barn where you feel the most comfortable. While I think you would really like dressage, you won't like it at all if you can't find a good trainer with horses that are appropriate for your riding level.
Finally, you also want to choose a barn where horsemanship can be a part of your regular lessons. Make sure that you will get to tack and untack the horse yourself (with help at first), rather than being handed a groomed and tacked up horse, and look for a trainer that seems willing to talk about other aspects of horse care with you. Riding is a lot more fun and meaningful when you get to learn more about your horse.
posted by horses, of courses at 8:43 PM on July 19, 2011
So as a lifelong horseback rider and competitor, I have to disagree with some of the advice here. You absolutely do not sound "holier than thou" to me. I know exactly the kinds of barns you are talking about and even though I compete I don't want to ride in those barns either. Trust your instincts on this.This, exactly.
I am in training at a very competitive h/j barn in California - the top riders are all off at the Pebble Beach show this week. I'm not interested in competing, at all. And yet this barn is perfect for me: patient, humbling, meditative: all centered around the horse. That's because my trainers emphasize flat work and belong to a long and proud and consistent and slow tradition, going back through George Morris and Bert de Nemethy to the European masters and, ultimately, to Xenophon.
This tradition is precisely about "the subtleties of language and communication with the horse while riding it (and not riding it)." Nothing about equitation has changed very significantly since Xenophon, and the fundamental realities of horsemanship are sufficiently similar across disciplines that I could watch this film about a brilliant Western colt-starter and understand more or less everything that was going on. (Can't do it, but can appreciate the brilliance.)
You're already on the right track. Never cut corners, and never train with anyone who does. Trust your gut.
Oh, and if you take this question over to the Chronicle of the Horse forums - basically Metafilter for English equitation - I've no doubt you'll get recommendations for specific barns by name.
posted by rdc at 1:10 PM on July 20, 2011
Response by poster: Thank you everybody for this amazing amount of suggestions! I will look through everything carefully and re-comment if I feel something could be added for others that would stumble on this thread :)
Thanks again,you guys are the best!!
(oh, and every answer is a "best answer", so unless I realize that one comment was astonishingly right on, and more so than the others, I'll mark it later, but seriously that would surprise me because every single one was helpful and inspiring)
posted by kitsuloukos at 7:22 PM on July 22, 2011
Thanks again,you guys are the best!!
(oh, and every answer is a "best answer", so unless I realize that one comment was astonishingly right on, and more so than the others, I'll mark it later, but seriously that would surprise me because every single one was helpful and inspiring)
posted by kitsuloukos at 7:22 PM on July 22, 2011
This thread is closed to new comments.
you are sounding very holier than thou. i ride and love horses, tho i never rode competitively but took lessons extensively and was always taught to learn to tune into the horse and to care for the horse both during and after rides. every person i have personally known who has been around horses competitively really love and respect horses—and it wasn't just about winning. competition comes as a result of taking pride in one's relationship with one's horse, and about feeling in tune with each other, and knowing what and how much to ask of each other, and how to push each other to do better. the competition is the forum in which to showcase that relationship. it isn't just about, oh, i'm just riding this random horse to win.
posted by violetk at 2:04 PM on July 19, 2011