Tips on Western Horse Lessons

Taking Western horse lessons does not typically require anything different than taking any other type of horseback riding lessons. Many novice riders begin their riding education with Western-style riding, simply because lesson options are more plentiful and typically less costly. While new riders should be aware of a few things before beginning Western lessons, most riding lesson tips apply to all riding styles.

• When signing up for Western horse lessons, consider the instructor. Certified instructors have more experience and training in specific teaching methods, but can be more expensive. Uncertified instructors may have less training but charge less and offer a more relaxed environment, such as training at the horse owner's property instead of the instructor's stable.


• Understand the different types and pieces of tack used in Western riding. For example, Western saddles are larger than English saddles, with more features designed for rider comfort on long trail rides. Headstalls, reigns and other Western tack are typically larger and more decorative than English tack, but with fewer separate pieces.


• Look at the bit and shanks placed on the horse used for lessons. Shanks are the metal pieces on either side of the horse's mouth that attach to the reigns. Longer shanks are often used on harder to control horses, as the longer shank pulls back harder on the horse's mouth. Beware of riding a horse that requires long shanks.


• Consider the fit of the saddle to the horse used in lessons. The saddle tree is a metal frame inside the saddle, just below the saddle horn. The metal is typically not visible, but can be felt from underneath the saddle. Heavier students need the saddle tree to make as much contact as possible with the horse, to more evenly distribute the rider's weight along the horse's back. An uncomfortable horse makes for less productive lessons, as the horse doesn't not respond as well to cue.


• Consider the fit of the saddle to the rider. The idea fit of a Western saddle seat is one hand width between the front of the saddle and the rider. The rider should be able to fit his hand sideways between his legs and where the saddle rises into the horn. His rump should sit firmly at the base of the cantle, the raised back of the saddle. More space between the rider and horn is better than less space.