To make the most out of your first riding holiday, I’ve compiled a checklist of tips that will help you prepare. You don’t have to do everything on this list, but the more you are able to check off, the easier and more fun your holiday will be!
- Verify that the ride suits your riding ability – This is most important for safety reasons, but it will also affect your enjoyment of the trip if you are overwhelmed by the horse you are riding. Some companies will not allow you to ride if they find out you have overstated your ability (on treks that cannot separate the riders by level). It’s best that you read the description of the ride carefully and reach out to the organizer to make sure the ride is right for you.
- Take riding lessons – This one may seem obvious, but taking riding lessons before your trek could mean the difference between feeling scared and feeling alive. The more lessons you are able to do, the better! There are some multi-day riding trips that do cater to absolute beginners, but read the details first to see if that applies (some companies describe a “beginner” as someone who is already riding and learning to canter)
- Go ride on trails – Arena practice is great, but riding outdoors in a group is different and comes with its own set of rules and challenges. Book a trail ride (or two) at a reputable riding stable near you to get some practice in.
- Get fit – If you are not already active multiple days a week, start to exercise out of the saddle. Cardio, weights, yoga, swimming – anything is better than nothing, but having good physical health and endurance will allow you to enjoy longer days in the saddle (you may ride for 7 hours a day on some treks).
- Prepare for pains and muscle aches – On my first trek, which was only 3 days long, I had knee pain like I’ve never experienced in my life! I was very glad for the pain relievers I brought along with me. Each subsequent trek has been better, and as I improve my position and strength in my legs, the pain is reduced even more. You may also experience muscle aches and stiffness from long hours in the saddle. Remember to stretch at the end of each day to alleviate some of the discomfort.
- Check your gear and clothing – What are the requirements of the company you are riding with? Or the country you are visiting? There can be strict rules about what you can and can’t bring along on a trek. Some require that you bring your own helmet, others might have rules about laces on boots. If you can’t find any information on the website, reach out to the ride organizer