Find a horse riding instructor in Gastonia, NC

Find horse riding lessons in Gastonia, NC

Find horse riding lessons in Gastonia, NC

Share a few details and we'll show you the best horseback riding instructors in your area.
Zip code

Student's interests and goals

Find horse riding lessons in Gastonia, NC

Share a few details and we'll show you the best horseback riding instructors in your area.
Zip code

Student's interests and goals

Top 10 horseback riding instructors in Gastonia, NC

Students agree: these Gastonia horse riding lessons are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Affordable Riding Lessons

Affordable Riding Lessons

5.0Exceptional(5)
2 hires on Lessons
7+ years in business
Serves Gastonia, NC
Christopher D. says, "Haylee is very knowledgeable and patient with riders. She is able to identify habits and other small details that aid in making you a better rider. She not only teaches riding but the horsemanship and care that goes along with riding horses. I highly recommend Haylee for riding lessons, roping lessons, and all around horse care." Read more
Jon Walker Stables & Riding Academy Inc.

Jon Walker Stables & Riding Academy Inc.

New on Lessons
1 hire on Lessons
29+ years in business
Serves Gastonia, NC
Address: 4933 Granny Trail, Gastonia, NC 28056, USA
C&S Equestrian

C&S Equestrian

5.0(1)
Serves Gastonia, NC
Brittany says, "She is a great teacher. Takes her time. Doesn't rush things. She explains things so they make sense." Read more
Gypsy's Gait Stables

Gypsy's Gait Stables

New on Lessons
21+ years in business
Serves Gastonia, NC
Gypsy's Gait Stables, nestled in the heart of Clover, South Carolina, is a prominent equestrian hub for horse lovers. They offer a wide range of services, including horse training, lessons, and therapeutic riding. The stables are also the proud home of the Happy Hooves 4H club, further enhancing their reputation as a community-focused establishment. Whether you're a novice rider or an experienced equestrian, Gypsy's Gait Stables provides a welcoming environment for all.
JTD Quarter Horses

JTD Quarter Horses

5.0(1)
26+ years in business
Serves Gastonia, NC
Craig B. says, "Renee is a great teacher! I was up in the saddle in no time. The riding sessions are so much fun. I’d recommend JTD Quarter Horses to anyone wanting to learn how to ride!!!" Read more
Four Lakes Farm

Four Lakes Farm

New on Lessons
6+ years in business
Serves Gastonia, NC
Our service stands out through our immense knowledge of everything horse related. What we enjoy about our work is passing along our passion to those with interest in the equine world.
White Rose Equestrian

White Rose Equestrian

New on Lessons
Serves Gastonia, NC
Located in Iron Station, NC, White Rose Equestrian Center is dedicated to promoting the love of the outdoors, healthy activities and respect for nature. With over 30 years of experience, they offer horse boarding, riding lessons in various styles for all abilities, and clinics. Their boarding service includes daily turnout, stall cleaning, and all-day hay feeding. They also organize workshops, shows, and pony parties. Their emphasis on fun, safety, and fostering a balanced partnership between horse and rider makes them a unique destination for equestrian enthusiasts.
Savannah’s Grey

Savannah’s Grey

New on Lessons
24+ years in business
Serves Gastonia, NC
Certified USHJA trainer. Also competed to prelim in eventing, 3rd level dressage. IEA coach.

Your Horseback Riding Lessons questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.

How much are horseback riding lessons?

Horse riding lessons cost $45 to $80 per hour, depending on where you live and the type of riding you want to learn. Most riding lessons begin in the ring, where the trainer can safely monitor the beginning rider as they get comfortable in the saddle.

Many trainers offer introductory packages at a discounted price and start beginning riders out in group lessons. As you master the riding basics, then a teacher may recommend private lessons to focus on specific skills or more advanced riding training.

What age to start horseback riding lessons?

There is no particular age that is best for starting horseback riding lessons, instead, it depends on the child's maturity, physical coordination, and interest in horses. Most experts agree that children should be at least 6 years old before taking formal riding lessons.

For young children, the parents should visit a stable to introduce the child to horses and horse care before signing up for lessons. Choose a stable with well trained, gentle horses and experience with young riders.

Do you tip for horseback riding lessons?

Tipping for horseback riding lessons is not customary, but always appreciated. A thank you note is a great way to acknowledge a good teacher and show your appreciation. If you want to tip, 10% to 20% tip is more than generous.

What equipment do I need to begin horse lessons?

Most horse stables have horses and tack for use during riding lessons, so purchasing that is not necessary at the start. Your instructor will let you know their specific recommendations, but the basic equipment you will need to begin horseback riding lessons includes:

  • Helmet
  • Riding pants
  • Boots with heels
  • Gloves

Do I have to own a horse to be able to take lessons?

No, you do not have to own a horse to take riding lessons. Many riding schools and barns have well-trained horses for beginners through experienced riders. Taking riding lessons before owning a horse is a great way to make sure you enjoy riding before committing to horse ownership.

Learning basic equine care before buying a horse is also advised. Riding trainers often include an element of horse care as part of their lessons. Tasks like mucking stalls, cleaning tack, and basic horse grooming are incorporated into lessons and are beneficial to learn before becoming a horse owner.

How often should I have lessons? How many lessons do I need?

The frequency and number of riding lessons depend on your level of experience, riding goals, and budget. Generally, it is recommended that beginners take lessons at least once a week to build foundational riding skills.

Basic riding skills take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months to learn but the more you ride, the faster you will improve. Riders who take one lesson a week will likely spend their first year focusing on riding basics. Riders who practice more often or schedule additional private lessons will advance faster.

How do I choose a horseback riding instructor?

When looking for horseback riding lessons, be sure to:

  • Start by researching different riding styles and disciplines to help you narrow down instructors that teach the type of riding you want to learn.
  • Visit the stables to ensure you are comfortable with how the horses are treated and the arena is maintained.
  • Ask about group or private lessons and decide which is better for your budget and riding goals.
  • Ask about taking an introductory lesson to try out their teaching style and gauge your interest in the sport.

What questions should I ask a riding instructor?

Once you've narrowed down a list of potential riding instructors, ask them the following questions:

  • What is your teaching style?
  • What are your qualifications?
  • What are your rates?
  • What type of horses do you have?
  • What is your availability?
  • What is your cancellation policy?

Reviews for Gastonia horseback riding instructors

Recent success stories from people in the Gastonia area.
Annie H.
I have ridden with Haylee for three years now and greatly appreciate the friendly casual environment. You can tell Haylee truly hates about her horses and riders.
Affordable Riding Lessons
How Lessons.com works
Search

Search, get cost estimates, contact teachers, and book—all for free.

Compare

View profiles, read reviews, check qualifications, and see prices before hiring.

Hire

Ask questions, confirm their availability, and hire the right tutor when you're ready.

Gastonia horseback riding lessons by service