10 Common Mistakes First-Time Horse Riders Make

By
Katherine Blocksdorf
Katherine Blocksdorf
Kathy Blocksdorf is an equine expert and writer with over three decades of experience in training and riding horses. She was raised caring for horses, rehabilitated rescue horses, shows her own horses, and rides long distance.
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Updated on 02/15/26
Two girls riding a horse
Credit:

 vm / Getty Images

Key Takeaways

  • Wear appropriate, form-fitting clothing and proper footwear to avoid accidents and ensure safety while riding.
  • Trust your coach's guidance when selecting a horse and follow all instructions to improve your riding experience.
  • Always wear a helmet and avoid relying on the saddle or stirrups for balance to reduce injury risks.

Learning to ride a horse can be exciting, but there are several things to avoid during your first time in the saddle.

  • 01 of 10

    Wearing Baggy Clothes

    Horse and rider walking in countryside.
    Credit:

    Dougal Waters / Getty Images

    Equestrian clothing, both English and western, is form-fitting for a reason. Flowing scarves, baggy pants, bulky sweaters with loose waists, and other loose clothing can get caught on the saddle if you fall off. Being caught halfway down could mean getting dragged, which is far more dangerous than falling clear.

    Ensure you wear appropriate riding clothing.

    Warning

    Always wear appropriate, form-fitting clothing to prevent getting caught and dragged by the horse in the event of a fall. Never attach yourself to the horse or saddle to avoid being dragged. Always wear a helmet, regardless of the horse's speed or movement.

  • 02 of 10

    Attaching Yourself to the Saddle or Horse

    Woman tightening horse saddle for horseback riding
    Credit:

    Rafal Rodzoch / Getty Images

    It's natural to want to stay on the horse, but it's a mistake to tie yourself to the horse, saddle, or reins. If you do fall off, it's safer to fall free, reducing the risk of getting dragged and sustaining worse injuries than just hitting the ground.

  • 03 of 10

    Letting Go of the Reins

    Man holding the reins of horse
    Credit:

    Sean Russell / Getty Images

    The reins help control the horse. You might instinctively toss them when scared and hold on tightly elsewhere, but this can confuse and frighten your horse.

    Hold onto those reins, and listen to your guide or coach. If things seem to go wrong, don't panic, take a deep breath, and follow instructions.

  • 04 of 10

    Wearing the Wrong Footwear

    Low Section Of Person Riding Horse
    Credit:

    Monika Fuchs / Getty Images

    Flip-flops, sandals, heels, trainers, clunky hiking boots, and other inappropriate footwear can cause accidents if they slide through or get wedged in a stirrup.

    Wear footwear similar to riding or cowboy boots to reduce the risk of getting caught in a stirrup if you fall. Avoid hitting the ground with your foot stuck.

    Continue to 5 of 10 below
  • 05 of 10

    Thinking You're Just Going to Sit There

    Three people sitting on their horses
    Credit:

    John Anthony Rizzo / Getty Images 

    Many people assume riding is merely sitting as the horse carries them. However, riding involves more than sitting in the saddle and letting the horse do all the work. It requires practice, skill, coordination, and balance.

  • 06 of 10

    Not Listening Closely

    Female horseback rider with instructor
    Credit:

    Zero Creatives / Getty Images

    If you're taking a lesson or on a guided tour, it is crucial to listen carefully to instructions.

  • 07 of 10

    Not Trusting Your Coach

    Horses On Field Against Trees
    Credit:

    Debaangshu Sen / Getty Images

    If your coach suggests riding the bay horse, but you prefer the pinto, remember that the coach likely chose this horse for a reason.

    The pinto might look great because its rider is more experienced and knows how to handle it well. Coaches excel at matching riders with appropriate horses. It's okay to ask, "Can I ride that one someday?" but for now, trust your coach's decision.

  • 08 of 10

    Trying to Hold the Saddle to Stay On

    Low Section Of Woman Riding Horse On Field
    Credit:

    Kaori Nohara / Getty Images

    Saddles and stirrups provide comfort and balance while riding, but should not be relied upon for holding on. Holding the saddle can become a bad habit. If you start to fall, gripping the saddle might shift it, resulting in being dragged instead of falling clear.

    Experienced riders can adjust a turning saddle, but as a beginner, you likely cannot. If feeling unsteady, hold the horse's mane or the strap your coach provides around the horse's neck.

    Continue to 9 of 10 below
  • 09 of 10

    Skipping the Helmet

    Group of four horse riders crossing river, woman looking at camera
    Credit: Noel Hendrickson / Getty Images

    Always wear a helmet, even if the horse only walks.

  • 10 of 10

    Quitting

    Horse riding in the mountains
    Credit:

    PeopleImages / Getty Images

    After your first ride, you'll realize that riding involves more than just sitting. You might experience sore muscles and feel confused about certain aspects because you're using your body in an unfamiliar way.

    Horse riding is a lifelong journey. Don't be discouraged if your first ride isn't perfect regular practice will enhance your knowledge and skills.

If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.
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