Horseback riding might seem like a hobby that’s a bit high on the barrier to entry. If you’re interested but unsure where to start, this guide covers how to find riding circles and clubs, what to look for when visiting trial lessons, and tips for choosing the right environment for you.
Step 1: How to Find a Riding Circle
For those interested in horseback riding but hesitant to visit a riding club alone, exploring riding circles can be a good first step. You can search online to see what riding circles are available in your area. Since horseback riding isn’t as prevalent as sports like baseball or soccer, the options might be limited.
If keywords like ‘horseback riding + circle + adult’ don’t yield many results, try using dedicated sites like ‘Kokuchizu Pro,’ ‘Circle Member Recruitment Boards,’ or ‘Tsunagēto’ for more options.
Using Circuit Search Sites
Start by searching online for riding circles near you. If you can’t find many options, utilize specialized search sites like ‘Kokuchizu Pro,’ ‘Circle Member Recruitment Boards,’ or ‘Tsunagēto.’
Searching for Riding Clubs
If you prefer to go straight to a riding club or can’t find suitable circles, search with ‘region + riding club’ or visit the ‘Riding Club Search’ on the All Japan Riding Club Promotion Association website. This allows you to filter based on your target area or the specific equestrian discipline you want to learn. It’s especially helpful if you live in a city and find the options overwhelming.
For complete beginners, especially those available on weekdays, check out the Japan Racing Association’s (JRA) website. They often hold beginner classes, even though JRA is mainly known for horse racing.
Step 2: Choose the Right Circle for You
After finding some candidates through your search, carefully select the one that best fits your needs. When choosing, consider questions like “Which circle is easiest for me to join?” and “What environment will help me continue long-term?”
Activity Schedule and Location
One of the most straightforward criteria is the schedule and location. This applies to both circles and clubs. Think about the frequency and days of activities, as well as how you will commute. Choosing a circle that offers evening or night lessons might be more suitable if you want to train after work. Since horses are living animals, training late into the night isn’t ideal, but for those who finish work on time or want to keep weekends free, evening lessons are a great option.
Matching Your Activity Preferences
Beyond logistics, it’s crucial to consider what you want to do with horses. Riding isn’t just about competition; there are many ways to enjoy it, and activity content can vary greatly between circles.
Some circles focus on practicing with friends, others emphasize caring for the horses, and some organize barbecues combined with trial rides. Since circles are just an entry point, it’s worth exploring various types without being too fixed on the idea of officially “learning to ride” from the start.
If you prefer a more straightforward experience without participating in clubs or circles initially, going directly to a riding club with many adult members for a trial lesson can also be a good choice.
Step 3: Participate in Trial Lessons or Events
If you find a riding circle or club that interests you, give their trial lessons a try. You’re not obligated to join afterwards; exploring different clubs and circles can give you a better sense of their atmosphere. Meeting experienced riders and hearing about their experiences can also help you envision how you want to approach riding.
When visiting trial lessons, pay attention to points like the staff’s attitude and the condition of the horses. It’s a good way to assess whether it’s a suitable environment for you.
Staff Attitude
First impressions are important. The friendliness of the staff at the reception and your instructor can tell you a lot about the atmosphere. They play a key role in your progress and enjoyment of riding.
If the staff’s response is poor or their teaching style doesn’t match your preferences, it’s better to compare with other clubs and take your time before deciding to join. Rushing into membership might not be the best idea.
Horse Behavior
Observe how the horses behave. While it may be difficult to read their expressions at first, horses that pin their ears or bite are likely scared or dislike human interaction. Horses that are not well-socialized tend to show such behavior. If many horses seem nervous or afraid around humans, it could indicate issues with staff handling or horse management.
Horses are naturally cautious animals, so they might react sensitively to unfamiliar people. Ask staff about the horses’ temperaments and how they are handled—this can also help deepen your understanding of the environment.
Cost and Equipment
Money matters can be a bit uncomfortable to discuss, but it’s wise to check costs in advance to avoid surprises later. Riding fees vary among clubs, but cheaper isn’t always lower quality.
Large chain clubs, with many members, tend to have relatively affordable riding fees. They might be busy with reservations, but they generally offer good facilities and a variety of lessons. Even if the initial costs seem low, remember that riding gear such as riding pants and boots can add up. Ask whether they offer rentals and how much it costs to purchase your own equipment later.
Understanding your budget and confirming costs with staff helps you plan your expenses, and their willingness to clearly and kindly answer questions is also an important factor in choosing a club.
Membership Demographics and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at a riding club depends greatly on its members’ age groups and tendencies. Some clubs are more social, offering numerous opportunities to interact, while others focus on one-on-one lessons or intensive training with the instructor. Observe the club’s environment during your visit to see if it matches your comfort level.
Some clubs also have youth riding teams for elementary to middle school kids. If you prefer a more adult-oriented environment, check for such features before deciding.
Facilities at the Riding Club
Facilities like changing rooms, lockers, and riding arenas vary widely. Ask staff about available amenities and their condition. If you encounter rainy weather, which can be disappointing if you wanted to ride, a covered riding arena (covered riding arena) is ideal for maintaining your schedule and keeping equipment dry.
Summary
While starting horseback riding as an adult may feel a bit intimidating, there are plenty of accessible places to learn nearby. If visiting a riding club right away feels daunting, consider beginning with a circle or club as a more manageable step. Use the points outlined above to visit and try out some lessons — when you actually meet the horses, you’ll likely become even more eager to start riding!