Getting the Most Out of Your Horse Riding Lessons: A Student’s Guide

Practical Tips for Preparation, Punctuality, and Progress in the Saddle

Whether you’re just starting out with horse riding or are already galloping toward your next goal, how you prepare for your lesson can make a huge difference to your progress and enjoyment. As a student, a bit of planning before you head to the stables helps you get the best out of your time with your horse and instructor. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you be on time, have your horse ready, and ensure you’re always learning something new each week.

1. Be Organised and Arrive Early

Running late is stressful for everyone—yourself, your instructor, and your horse. Aim to arrive at the agistment/stables/barn at least 25–40 minutes before your lesson is scheduled to begin. This gives you time to greet your horse, get your gear together, brush, tack up and settle your mind for the session ahead. Lay out your riding clothes, boots, helmet, and gloves the night before, and double-check your lesson time, especially if you have a busy arvo planned. Ensure you get confirmation from your coach, to avoid any missed opportunities when we can communicate!

2. Prepare Your Horse Ahead of Time

It is respectful for timing, if you have your horse(s) ready more than 10mins before your lesson starts, make sure you know what that involves at your riding school or agistment. Generally, this means catching your horse, giving them a good brush to remove dirt and ensure comfort under the tack, picking out their hooves, giving them some good quality hay (as it is best they have something in their stomachs to reduce acid sloshing around in causing ulcers), and tacking up safely and correctly. If you’re not confident with any of these steps, ask for a quick refresher or watch a more experienced rider for tips. A calm, well-prepared horse will help you start the lesson on the right hoof.

Be ready in the riding arena to maximise your time with your instructor and get the most out of your lesson.

Ensure you have any recent vet or bodyworker reports with you to discuss with your coach. Even better if you send it well in advance of your lesson - an excellent coach will thoroughly read this and tailor your lesson with your horse's welfare in mind.

3. Do Your Homework

Many instructors give riders exercises or concepts to practise between lessons. This might include practising a particular move/combination, learning to plait a mane, stretching exercises, or reading up on horse care. Make a note of your homework and any questions that come up while practising during the week. Come to your lesson ready to discuss what you’ve worked on and what you found tricky—your instructor will appreciate your effort and can tailor the lesson to help you improve.

4. Bring the Right Attitude

Being open-minded and ready to learn is just as important as being physically prepared. Leave any stress from school, work, or home at the gate. Set yourself a goal for each lesson, but also be willing to adapt—sometimes horses have their own ideas! Treat your horse, coach/instructor, and fellow riders with respect, and ask questions if you’re unsure about anything. Remember, no question is too silly when it comes to horse safety and care.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions—Especially “Why?”

Never hesitate to speak up and ask questions during your lesson, particularly when you’re curious about the “why” behind what you’re being taught, or if you do not understand. Understanding the reasoning allows you to develop a feel for your horse and learn to troubleshoot issues on your own—skills you’ll rely on when your coach isn’t there to guide you. By digging into the root cause rather than just accepting instructions at face value, you build real confidence and know-how, rather than expecting the answers to be handed to you on a silver platter.

This approach helps you become a more thoughtful, independent rider and ensures you’re truly learning, not just ticking boxes. Your coach will appreciate your interest, and you’ll find that your progress in the saddle is all the more rewarding for the effort you put in.

Ask yourself, would you rather be an independent rider or someone who can't think for themselves and has to wait for a coach/instructor to repeat instructions to you without you understanding what it is. "The blind leading the blind" is a common phrase you would associate with this approach. Horse owners and riders should not really tune out when with their horse - seek purpose, leadership and connection. This will also keep you and your fur friends safer too!

Coaches and instructors love having students who seek deep understanding as it shows in their skills and horse partnerships. It shows dedication and intent.

6. Take Notes and Reflect

After each lesson, jot down what you learnt, what went well, and what you want to work on next time. This could be in a notebook or a notes app on your phone. Over time, you’ll see how much you’ve improved and spot any recurring challenges to discuss with your instructor. Reflection is key to making steady progress as a rider.

If you have a coach or instructor that writes this down for you or provides this in a student portal - you have struck GOLD! Cherish having the ability to not needing to remember everything in the lesson and being in the moment. It is rare to find coaches who take this approach, but they are out there! (I know of a few in the Canberra region and in Australia who do this. Comment below if you'd like to get their details and I can pass them on too.)

7. Look After Your Horse Post-Lesson

Your responsibilities don’t end when you dismount. Cool your horse down properly, untack, give them a brush, hose down if sweaty, check for any nicks or rubs, and ensure they have access to water and feed too. Taking care of your horse after a ride is a sign of good horsemanship and shows respect for your four-legged mate. In the warmer months, make sure you add electrolytes and magnesium to their feed a few days before and after your lessons, as they will sweat/work harder and you want to replenish their sweat loss and aid in muscular recovery.

Bonus Tips

• Pack a water bottle and a healthy snack for after your ride—you’ll need the energy!

• Check the weather and prepare accordingly (raincoat, sunscreen, fly repellent, etc.).

• Keep your gear clean and in good nick; it’ll last longer and be safer for you and your horse.

• If possible, watch other lessons or riders for extra learning—there’s always something new to pick up at the stables.

With a bit of planning and a positive mindset, you’ll get the most out of every horse riding lesson. Happy riding, and don’t forget to give your horse an extra pat for a job well done!

What else do you think makes a good student, or even a good/outstanding coach/instructor? What have you found?