PARENT'S PAGE

Getting your child started in an Equine activity can be very overwhelming, especially when it is an activity that is new to you as well. You are encouraged to come watch others ride at Burgundy Hill. You, or your child, will pick up a lot and learn much faster by watching the more experienced riders, and the show horses. There are people to watch almost every day. Saturday is a busy day and a great day to stop by and watch.

We are here to answer your questions and guide you in every way. Below you will find some helpful information for you when your child wants to start riding lessons.

What should be worn to riding lessons?

Riders should wear an ankle-high boot with a smooth sole and a 1/2 inch heel. Do not wear a hiking-boot type sole as it may get caught in the stirrup. The low heel keeps the boot from sliding all the way through the stirrup. Boots may be lace-up, zipper, or elastic. A sneaker can slide all the way through the stirrup, and also does not offer adequate protection if a horse should step on the rider's foot.

Helmets, which must be worn, must fit properly. A poorly-fitting helmet can cause serious problems. When you have the helmet on, it should not be possible to pull it down over the eyes.

Riders must wear full-length pants, never shorts or capri pants. We strongly recommend riding pants which are long pants with a bell-bottom and straps that go under the boots. Please keep the straps on the pants at all times! The straps keep the pants from riding up on the leg and chafing.

Is it better to take private lessons or groups?

There are benefits to private lessons, and benefits to group lessons. The ideal schedule is one private and one group lesson per week. In private lessons, the student receives intense individual attention and will progress more rapidly in many areas. However, group lessons are also very beneficial, as the rider must be able to steer around other riders and control the horse in a group. It is also very helpful to watch other riders, and the students in groups learn quite a bit from each other as well. Riders who are interested in showing need to ride in a group as that is what they'll do in the show ring, and they must be able to maneuver around the other horses.