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Getting Started
Just starting out or getting back in the saddle?
Whether you are ready to take your first lesson, or are interested in finding a new place to ride, Manitoba Horse Council is here for you! We understand that the journey into horse sports can be overwhelming, and we want to help simplify the process. Below you will find a collection of links to help you step into the equestrian world.
It is never too late to rekindle your love of horses. If you’re thinking about getting back into the saddle after some time away, you’re not alone – over half of current riders have chosen to take a prolonged period of time out of the saddle at some point, so you're in good company.
It doesn’t matter whether you’ve all but forgotten how to ride or you’ve just taken a short break, there’s a place to get back in the saddle at whatever level you want.
Horse riding is a great way to socialize, learn new skills and boost your sense of wellbeing. While riding may feel daunting, with the right horse and support to give you confidence, it's amazing how quickly you'll get going.
Riding Stables
When you call to book a lesson, be honest about your riding ability because it will make for a better match. Think about your goals and where you want to get to – maybe you just want a reminder of what it's like to be in the saddle, or you want to get to the point where you can own, lease or share a horse. Maybe you have a specific goal, such as jumping or going for a trail ride with friends. This will help the stable tailor your lessons to you.
Adults
There are lots of adults getting back into riding together. Many riding stables have structured lessons for adults to learn together, which take you right back to basics to ensure you have the grounding to progress. Many stables will book you in for an assessment lesson first to check your ability and confidence, before putting you into a group lesson.
If you want to get back to riding quickly, sometimes private one-to-one or semi-private lessons may be good for you. Enquire with the stable when you give them a call to book.
Children and Young People
MHC understands that young riders are the future of our sport. We want to encourage them to enjoy the sport, while also providing education and support for their equestrian endeavors. Many riding stables cater specifically to children and young people. Some Pony Club groups host activities for children and young people without their own ponies, with activities including rallies and camps, as well as group training and assessment on horse care and riding.
Riding lessons, like any sport, can be expensive. KidSport provides grants to kids from families facing financial barriers so they can participate in registered sport programs and experience the lifelong benefits of a season of sport. KidSport Manitoba provides grants of up to $500 per eligible kid, per year (January 1st - December 31st) towards sport registration fees. Riding facilities eligible for KidSport funding must be active members of Manitoba Horse Council (their Provincial Sport Organization (PSO).
Persons with Disabilities
Horse riding is one of the most accessible sports for persons with disabilities or those with a long-term health condition – nearly a quarter of equestrian participants say they have a disability. You may want specialist sessions, which are offered through Prairie Strides (formerly Manitoba Riding for the Disabled Association, Inc.), an accessible horseback riding program for children, age 5-15, living in Manitoba.