So, you finally get to take riding lessons. Congratulations! But now that you've talked your parents/guardians/yourself into taking them, where to ride? I suggest going to horserentals.com and browsing for riding establishments in your state and/or country. If that doesn't work, look in your telephone book under "riding establishments" or "horse back riding" and contact them through there.

Once you found a place that is well within your reach (meaning: time, money and transportation) go unannounced. Don't tell them you are going to stop by. That way you can see how their establishment is run - without making any kind of commitment. See how their horses are cared for (ect.) If you feel that this stable takes care of their animals and employees, tell the owner that you'd be glad to take lessons from them. Then tell them what times are good for you, and make plans for your first lesson.

Dressing for your lesson:

You should always wear pants with wide enough bells (the bottom of your jeans) to cover your boots. And yes, you should wear boots. You don't have to dish out the dough just to find a pair of decent riding boots. They need a heel, 1-2 inches, the should come up over your ankles as well. Go to your local convenience store (like KMart or Wal*Mart) and get a pair of working boots. Or go online to Stateline tack and order a pair of rubber ones. They will cost the same, if not a bit less, then the working boots. Your shirt should be tucked in, or short enough not to get in the way. If you are riding in the summer heat, make your clothes lighter colors. Lighter colors reflect the sun, therefore making you cooler. If you are riding in fall or winter, wear darker colors. Maybe a sweatshirt or a windbreaker over your shirt.

You should always bring some kind of drink. Be it Gatorade or PowerAde or some kind of juice. It will cool you off and save you from getting heat exhaustion or something worse. Be prepared, your instructor will have you or your parent fill out a legal document saying that they are not liable for any kind of injury incurred while you were under their care. Your instructor should *always* provide an ASTM/SEI approved helmet for you to wear - if not, go get a bike helmet and ride with that for that lesson, you'll know to get a helmet before the next time you ride. Your instructor might work you on the lead line for the first lesson, just so you get a feel of the horse beneath you. Don't feel discouraged! It's a wonderful thing to have someone else to steer for you will you just work on your skills!

Things take time. Don't expect to be a Grand Prix rider your first day. If you fall off, so what - "You know how many falls it takes before you are considered a rider?" asked my trainer, Shanna. I shook my head and said 'I don't know'. "Seven," was her response. Just make sure you get back on, because you don't want to miss the next trot!

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