5 Myths About Learning Horse Riding (And What Really Happens in Your First Lesson)
When you tell friends you’re thinking about taking horseback riding lessons, you’ll probably hear a mix of excitement and a few dramatic warnings. “Be careful, horses are huge!” or “You have to be super fit to even stay on!”
At Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma, we’ve heard them all and we’re here to set the record straight. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone returning to the saddle after years, riding is not what the myths make it out to be.
And with our new Santa Rosa location opening soon, there’s never been a better time to start your riding journey.
Let’s bust those myths, one hoofbeat at a time.
Myth #1: “You Need to Be a Natural Athlete to Ride a Horse”
The Truth:
You don’t need to be a professional gymnast to ride! Horseback riding is about communication, balance, and connection with your horse, not raw strength.
At Strides Riding Academy, we teach you how to work with your horse, not against it. You’ll learn how to use small, gentle cues to guide them, rather than relying on force.
💡 Fun fact: Many of our students start with little or no athletic background and end up riding with confidence and ease.
Myth #2: “Horses Are Scary and Hard to Control”
The Truth:
Yes, horses are big, but the ones at Strides are more like giant, four-legged friends. Our lesson horses are calm, well-trained, and love working with beginners.
You’ll quickly learn that riding is a partnership, not a battle. Instructors at Strides pair you with the right horse so you feel comfortable from the start.
✨ Pro Tip: You might end up bonding so much that your horse becomes the highlight of your week.
Myth #3: “You’ll Fall Off in Your First Lesson”
The Truth:
Falling off is part of the learning process in horseback riding. It happens to everyone at some point, even the most experienced riders. At Strides, we prepare you to handle it and get back in the saddle with confidence.
Our instructors guide you step by step, building your skills so you’re better equipped each time you ride. Every tumble is a lesson in itself, and most riders find that what seems scary at first quickly becomes a story they’re proud to tell.
😄 Fun Angle: You’ll discover that the moments you fall teach you more about riding than the ones where everything goes perfectly.
Myth #4: “You Have to Master Everything on Day One”
The Truth:
Your first lesson is about learning the basics, not perfection. We focus on helping you feel comfortable, teaching you how to communicate with your horse, and enjoying the ride.
At Strides Riding Academy, here’s what your first session looks like:
Meeting and bonding with your horse
Loaner helmet fitting and quick orientation
Learning how to mount, sit correctly, and hold the reins
A guided ride where you’ll practice walking and steering
Leaving with a huge smile and a new sense of accomplishment
💡 Note: We provide helmets for your first lesson. After that, riders are required to have their own helmet for ongoing training.
Myth #5: “Horse Riding is Only for Kids or Pros”
The Truth:
Horseback riding is for everyone. We teach kids, teens, and adults who are just starting out or rediscovering a childhood dream.
You don’t need to aim for trail rides or competitions to enjoy the sport. At Strides, our lessons are about building skills, forming a bond with the horse, and experiencing the joy of riding in a supportive environment.
🚨 Exciting News: Riders in Santa Rosa will soon have their own Strides location to enjoy. Stay tuned for our opening updates.
The Real Experience: What Happens in Your First Lesson at Strides
When you book your first lesson at Strides, here’s what you’ll experience:
Meet Your Horse – Get to know their name, personality, and quirks.
Gear Up – We’ll loan you a helmet for the first lesson, then guide you on getting your own.
Learn the Basics – Mounting, balance, steering, and connecting with your horse.
Take Your First Ride – Practice walking under the watchful eye of an instructor.
Celebrate Your Progress – Every step you take in the saddle is a win worth celebrating.
FAQ – Beginner Horse Riding Questions
1. What should I wear to my first horse riding lesson?
Wear comfortable pants like jeans or leggings and boots with a small heel. Helmets are loaned for the first lesson only.
2. How long does it take to learn to ride a horse?
Most riders feel confident walking and steering after just a few lessons. Everyone progresses at their own pace.
3. Can adults learn to ride, or is it just for kids?
Absolutely. Many of our adult riders start as beginners and quickly fall in love with the sport.
4. Do I need to bring anything for my first lesson?
Just wear the right clothes, bring water, and come with an open mind and a sense of adventure.
Ready to Start Your Riding Journey?
Don’t let myths or fear hold you back. Horseback riding isn’t just a sport; it’s an experience that builds confidence, challenges you in the best way, and connects you with an incredible animal partner.
Whether you’re in Petaluma or soon near our new Santa Rosa location, Strides Riding Academy is ready to help you discover the rider within you. Our riders leave each lesson with new skills, unforgettable memories, and a growing passion for the sport.
👉 Take the first step. Book your first lesson today and experience the thrill of riding for yourself.