First time back to horses since 2003

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Hopeandhorses

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I swore and I'm sorry... my intro was removed, but I wanted to post it again.
I'm getting back into horses after 20+ years without. I think it's a common thing, where life gets in the way, then you get to your 40's and think '**** it, if I don't do it now I might get too old!!'.
My daughter is 8 and has shown interest in riding for over a year now, and that's all I need in order to push the boat out and get our yard back up and running but I literally have to start from the ground up. I remember when I used to get excited for the Shires catalogue to come out each year and I'd mark everything I wanted. So in a similar way, I've been getting to know all the new brands and finding out what's new in the world of Equestrian! I have SOOOOOO many questions and queries so apologies in advance 😄
 
You have made me feel better!! I am a newbie at 50 so lots to learn so nice to hear even experienced riders after long while feel newish again. Hopefully I can pick up on some of your questions too. Lisa
 
You are not too old. I didnt start riding till I was 60. But I do suggest starting with riding school lessons and riding several RS horses there, not just the one you like best.
Many riding schools have hard hats you can hire but I suggest you buy a new modern hat and possibly a body protector.
Take it slowly and think of leading and ground work as well as riding. Grooming is important and knowing how to pick up the feet. Knowing how to tack up and to tie up a horse.
Work out what you want to do with your horse -jumping or dressage? And what height and build you find comfortable to ride. Not every horse suits every person. If you buy the wrong horse, dont be afraid to sell it again and find another. Same goes for teachers. If you dont get on with a horse or teacher, dont despair. Go and find somewhere else. Riding should be a pleasure and not an ordeal.
 
Skib said:
You are not too old. I didnt start riding till I was 60. But I do suggest starting with riding school lessons and riding several RS horses there, not just the one you like best.
Many riding schools have hard hats you can hire but I suggest you buy a new modern hat and possibly a body protector.
Take it slowly and think of leading and ground work as well as riding. Grooming is important and knowing how to pick up the feet. Knowing how to tack up and to tie up a horse.
Work out what you want to do with your horse -jumping or dressage? And what height and build you find comfortable to ride. Not every horse suits every person. If you buy the wrong horse, dont be afraid to sell it again and find another. Same goes for teachers. If you dont get on with a horse or teacher, dont despair. Go and find somewhere else. Riding should be a pleasure and not an ordeal.
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definitely second this
 
Adding a personal note. I started to ride in the autumn and had a horrible time being bullied by the teacher who believed I was too old. The horse I rode each week was my only ally and after my lesson, it was my job to lead him back to his stall, untack him and put on his rug.

Being shown how to fold the rug and put it onto the horse without rubbing his coat the wrong way, and buckle up the rug was probably the most amazing and useful lesson of my life. Rugging him twice a week put me in close proximity to the horse and showed me I could move the horse, handle him safely and have his co operation.
 
Skib said:
You are not too old. I didnt start riding till I was 60. But I do suggest starting with riding school lessons and riding several RS horses there, not just the one you like best.
Many riding schools have hard hats you can hire but I suggest you buy a new modern hat and possibly a body protector.
Take it slowly and think of leading and ground work as well as riding. Grooming is important and knowing how to pick up the feet. Knowing how to tack up and to tie up a horse.
Work out what you want to do with your horse -jumping or dressage? And what height and build you find comfortable to ride. Not every horse suits every person. If you buy the wrong horse, dont be afraid to sell it again and find another. Same goes for teachers. If you dont get on with a horse or teacher, dont despair. Go and find somewhere else. Riding should be a pleasure and not an ordeal.
Click to expand...
what lovely answer and tips!
 
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