How to Open a Horseback Riding Academy

If you love horses and teaching, opening a horseback riding academy just might be the career your heart has been seeking. Horseback riding is a popular past time for those that are young, and even young at heart. Building a school for riding will help those who seek help with learning how to ride or those who want to learn professionally.

You will need:

• Horses


• 10 acres or more of land


• Fencing


• Stables


• Licenses


• Riding equipment


• Trainer, optional

1. Purchase your land if you do not already own it. Ten acres is ideal though more is always better. Make sure there is enough room to board the horses as well as an area for track or trails.


2. Prepare any special licenses needed per your local laws and regulations. The local zoning office is the best place to start.


3. Build your stables for housing your horses. Ask yourself whether you will allow other people to board their horses, or if the stables will be for your own.


4. Fence in riding areas. Most academies will have separate areas depending on the types of riding being taught. You will also want dedicated grazing areas for horses turned out to pasture.


5. Purchase horses, if you do not already own them. While there is not a magic number for how many to start with, five or more is ideal. Make sure the horses are in top health and can be easily ridden.


6. Purchase good quality supplies such as saddles, bridles, stir-ups, halters and other equipment that might be needed. These are items that most customers would not commonly have unless they own a horse themselves.


7. Acquire comprehensive insurance for your school. This will cover unforeseen accidents that might occur. You may also wish to set-up a liability waiver for your students to sign prior to lessons.


8. Hire a trainer. This is optional, however if you do not feel you know how to teach lessons or you will not have enough time, hiring a trainer can help you. Depending on the size of your school will depend upon how many you would need to hire. For small schools this is typically unnecessary.


9. Advertise your new business. Utilize your local paper, online message boards and hang fliers.