So, you got a gift certificate to Chukkar Farm for riding lessons from Santa. That’s great! We’re so excited to get you enrolled and see you enjoying our favorite four legged creatures right along side us! Before you get here, there are a few things you should know and expect for your first horseback riding lessons.
Know Your Equipment
Whether you’ve signed up for polo lessons or hunter jumper lessons, you won’t be riding in the big western saddles that you see in the movies. You’ll be using saddles that are significantly smaller, lighter weight, and don’t have the huge horn in front. Don’t worry, we’ll show you everything you need to know about balancing up there so you can stay on.
Dress the Part
Whether you’re riding in the chill of January or the heat of August, it is always imperative that you come dressed in long pants and close-toed shoes. The long pants will protect your legs from chafing against the saddle, and the closed toed shoes are of course to protect your little piggies in case a horse happens to put their hoof on top of your foot, on accident of course. Also, your shoes should have a small heel to keep your foot from slipping through the stirrups (the things you put your feet in on the saddle.)
Arrive Early
We are going to have a lot to show you in a short amount of time. Showing up an extra 15 minutes early is always appreciated so that you can learn more about how to bring the horses up from their pastures, brush them down, and tack them up correctly.
These are just a few of the very basic things you need to know when you come to Chukkar Farm for your first riding lessons. If you’d like more information about what you should expect, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We can’t wait to see you here!