posted 03-09-2004 10:08 AM         

If we have a choice, do we want English or Western? What's the difference (all I know is the different saddle...)? What should I look for in a riding school? What questions should I ask?

posted 03-09-2004 01:16 PM         

I personally recommend western, its more comfortable and u can ride for longer with less discomfort for the inexperienced rider. But beware you thighs will be sore! But just as you get accustomed.

There are a few things you should look for when looking for a riding stable:

1. clean facilities (stalls, arenas, everything)

2. the horses look well taken care of, well fed

3. the grooms treat the horses with respect

4. friendly trainers and instructors

5. even tempered horses

*on the last one: some stables like mines rent stalls out to their riders so the riders can board there horses. make sure the facilities own horses are even tempered. I personally have a stallion who can be a big grouch but he is my own, not the facilities. if something feels off to u adress the issue, and if u are not satisfied with things look for some other place.

posted 03-10-2004 09:21 AM         

Moving to western is great as well. It's the most common form of riding as well as the easiest. Email me if you would like some more info:

posted 03-18-2004 10:13 PM         

I began riding western as a 5 yr old. I have been riding for 16 years. I am learning English now. I suggest starting out English for the balance. As a western rider I have noticed that I became lazy in the saddle and don't have the leg strength and balance that I should have. I encourage lunge line work where you ride with no stirrups. This really establishes your seat. This will help you in any style you decide to ride.

You can go to www.ridinginstructor.com. It is the American Riding Instrcutor Association website. You can type in your area and find certified instructors in your area. You can also see what kind of testing each instructor goes through.

Anyways just some tips for your future riding!