If you want to start horseback riding, the first step is to find a riding club. However, many people wonder, ‘How do I choose from among many riding clubs?’ This article explains key points for selecting a riding club and what to check before becoming a member.
Types of Horse Riding Clubs
Should You Choose an Independent or Chain Riding Club?
Like restaurants, riding clubs can be run by individual owners or be part of a larger chain. Neither is inherently better, so here are the characteristics of each.
Private clubs tend to reflect the owner’s philosophy in the club’s atmosphere and lessons. However, there are significant differences in management stability and staff quality, so careful observation is recommended. Visiting and choosing a long-established club usually reduces risk.
Good points include a homely atmosphere and fewer students per horse and staff, allowing for more personalized lessons.
On the other hand, major chains usually have more comprehensive staff and facilities, offering a broader range of riding styles. However, larger clubs often have more students per horse, making reservations and group lessons more challenging at preferred times.
British vs. Western Riding Styles
Riding can generally be divided into two styles: the more rugged Western that utilizes the horse’s physical abilities, and the primarily British (European) style that emphasizes precise control. Which style motivated your interest in riding?
In Japan, British riding is more common. If you want to try Western riding, it’s best to check the club’s website carefully. Look for clubs explicitly offering Western riding or those specialized in it.
Enjoying Riding as a Hobby or Competing
Think about how you want to enjoy riding when choosing a club. Here, we introduce some ways to enjoy riding.
Varieties of Competition
Earlier, we discussed British and Western styles. Now, let’s look at the main competitions focused on the British style, which is more prevalent.
Typical competitions include Jumping over obstacles and Dressage exercising the horse’s movements precisely in a ring. Other events such as Cross-country, which involves navigating obstacles on a large course in nature, are also popular.
Most riding clubs offer basic lessons in jumping and dressage. However, instructors have different specialties and experience levels, so if there’s a specific discipline you want to focus on, choose a club that promotes teaching that.
Beyond Competition: Other Ways to Enjoy Riding
Riding isn’t just about competitions. Many enthusiasts enjoy caring for horses, which deepens understanding and affection. Grooming, cleaning hooves, or observing changes in the horse’s health are also valuable experiences.
Others cherish outdoor riding, also called Horse Trekking, where you can explore nature from horseback. It offers a refreshing outdoor experience and a chance to see the horse’s expressions and movements more vividly.
However, some clubs restrict outdoor riding and stable chores for safety reasons. Be sure to check what activities are available and whether your preferred style of interaction with horses can be accommodated.
Cost and Rental Considerations for Riding Clubs
Many are worried that horse riding might be an expensive sport for the wealthy. Here, we discuss the typical costs involved when starting horseback riding.
How Much Does Horse Riding Cost?
Costs vary depending on the club, but generally, the expenses are divided into three categories:
– Membership fee
– Annual or monthly dues
– Riding lesson fees
Most clubs operate on a membership basis to maintain facilities and ensure a stable environment for the horses. Some clubs, however, do not require membership, which means no membership or entrance fee. On average, entrance fees are around 100,000 to 200,000 yen, and monthly dues are about 10,000 to 20,000 yen.
Riding lesson fees are usually a few thousand yen per session. The total monthly cost depends on how many times you plan to ride each month.
Rental and Purchase of Equipment
In addition to lesson fees, you will need some equipment such as riding breeches, boots, and helmets. Even affordable options can cost 30,000 to 50,000 yen. Items like gloves or protectors might also be necessary to prevent injuries.
Since initial costs can be high, especially with membership fees and monthly dues, renting equipment initially is a good idea. Many clubs offer rental services, either paid or free for members.
Gradually, you can purchase your own gear, starting with basic or beginner sets that are reasonably priced.
Try a Trial Lesson at a Club You’re Interested In
After confirming the event types and costs, if a riding club catches your interest, consider taking a trial lesson. First, experiencing the atmosphere and the fun part of riding is the best way to make a decision. What points should you observe during a visit or trial lesson?
Interact with the Horses and Staff
First, check the staff’s attitude. Their friendliness and professionalism, as well as the instructor’s teaching style, are important when choosing a club.
Also, observe the horses. If a horse appears excessively frightened or suspicious of people, it may indicate a lack of trust between staff and animals. Horses that tuck their ears back or bite may be scared.
Don’t worry too much about judging a club solely by this. Also, find a horse you like, as having a favorite horse makes visiting more enjoyable.
Check Facilities In Person
Access to the club, locker rooms, changing areas, and overall convenience are things best checked by visiting directly. If the club suits your schedule, budget, and preferences for staff and horses, the facilities might seem less important. Still, it’s good to verify the physical environment during your visit.
Summary
When choosing a riding club, think about what kind of riding you want to do and find a club that matches your interests or competitions. You don’t need to narrow down to one immediately—visit and experience a trial lesson to see the atmosphere, facilities, and costs firsthand.