Beginner Horse Riding Lessons at Golden Glade Ranch: A New Rider's Guide

At Golden Glade Ranch, every session in the saddle is a new opportunity to learn—not just for our horses, but for us as riders, too. Whether you’re just starting out or guiding a young rider like Gigi through the process, the journey is about building trust, clear communication, and gentle leadership.

Here are some key takeaways from our latest training session with horse trainer Leah Van Ewijk—foundational principles that every new rider should keep in mind.

1. The Power of Consistency and Focus

One of the first lessons Leah emphasizes is the importance of consistency in your corrections and rewards. When you’re working with your horse, it’s crucial to stay focused throughout the exercise. Finish what you start—reward your horse at the right moment, and avoid stopping halfway through an exercise. If you break focus, your horse can become confused, and progress stalls. As Leah says, “Stay razor-sharp focused when you’re in an exercise, so that you reward the horse at the right time. Then, once you stop the horse, then you can do whatever you need to do.”

Takeaway: Complete each cue with intention, and always end on a positive note.

2. Developing Feel: Seat, Hands, and Preparation

Learning to ride isn’t just about holding the reins—it’s about developing “feel.” This means understanding how your body affects your horse’s balance and direction.

Leah walks new riders through proper seat and hand position:

• Don’t arch your back—tuck your seat under you.

• Keep your elbows by your sides and your hands wide enough to communicate clearly through the reins.

• Use closed fists for strength and stability.

Before any transition—like going from walk to trot—take a moment to prepare your position. Little rituals like this build confidence and create consistency for your horse.

Takeaway: Good riding starts with good posture and clear, consistent hand signals.

3. Back Up and Correction: Kind, Clear Communication

A key tool in the natural horsemanship toolbox is the backup. If your horse rushes, resists, or gets “racy,” use a gentle backup to bring her attention back to you. This isn’t punishment—it’s a reset button. Leah explains: “Back her up… and then turn her around, legs, legs, good. All right, turn around, good.”

Backing up also teaches your horse to be soft and responsive rather than heavy or resistant. Combine seat, legs, and rein aids for the most effective results.

Takeaway: Don’t be afraid to use gentle corrections; it’s how horses learn what you expect.

4. Balancing Softness and Firmness

Riding isn’t about being hard or forceful; it’s about clarity. Leah encourages riders to be “casual but firm.” When your horse needs direction, be clear and decisive—but also quick to reward softness. “Very casual when you ride your horse, but firm and clear. Everything’s clear, not busy.”

This blend of relaxed presence and clear boundaries builds trust and encourages your horse to look to you for guidance.

Takeaway: Horses thrive on calm, confident leadership.

5. Adapting to Each Moment

Every horse, like every rider, and beginner horse riding lesson is unique. Some days will feel easy, others more challenging. The key is to stay patient, observe your horse, and adjust your approach as needed. Try new techniques, see what works for you and your horse, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or try things “the Pony Club way” or “the Western way.” Ultimately, you and your horse are a team—find your style together.

Takeaway: Flexibility, curiosity, and patience are your greatest assets.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Little Wins - when beginner horse riding lessons

Whether you’re working through a tricky backup or celebrating that your horse didn’t run out the gate, every ride is a step forward. Remember, learning to ride is about progress, not perfection. At Golden Glade Ranch, we celebrate those small moments of connection and growth—because they build the foundation for everything else.

Ready to start your journey?

Come ride with us, ask questions, and experience the magic of learning alongside your horse. We’re here for every step (and trot, and canter) of the way.

Golden Glade Ranch: Where riders and horses grow together.