Restarting Your Riding Journey: How to Get Back in the Saddle Fast

Been away from the horse for a while? Maybe you’re returning from an injury, a busy season, or just a long holiday. Whatever the reason, jumping straight back into a full lesson can feel scary. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul everything. A few focused steps can bring back your balance, confidence, and that special bond with your horse.

Start Small and Focus on Basics

First thing – dial down the intensity. Begin with ground work: grooming, saddling, and walking the horse around the arena. Those simple actions remind you how the horse moves and how you react. Next, hop on for a short walk trot. Keep it under five minutes and focus on your seat, your legs, and the feel of the reins. If you notice any wobble, pause, adjust, and try again. Repeating these short sessions builds muscle memory without over‑loading your body.

Use Targeted Drills to Re‑Engage Muscles

Once you’re comfortable with a walk, add a few easy drills. Try a circle‑and‑straight routine: ride a small circle, then a straight line, then a larger circle. This helps you regain control of your hips and reins. Another useful drill is the leg pressure exercise – gently squeeze with your inside leg to ask for a slight turn. Keep the cues light; the horse will respond better to subtle prompts after a break.

Don’t forget to check your equipment. A poorly fitting saddle or broken stirrup can ruin a smooth restart. Take a few minutes before each ride to make sure everything is snug and secure. If something feels off, fix it before you mount.

Listening to your body matters too. If you feel any lingering pain, especially in your back or knees, stop and stretch. A quick stretch routine – hamstring stretch, calf stretch, and a gentle back roll – can keep you flexible and reduce the risk of injury.

When you feel ready, add a short canter. Keep it brief: 30 seconds to a minute. The goal is to feel the rhythm, not to push for speed. If the horse gets ahead, simply ease off the reins and let the horse settle back into a trot before trying again.

Throughout the process, stay positive. It’s normal to have a few off‑moments, but each ride adds a piece back to the puzzle. Celebrate small wins – a smooth walk, a balanced circle, a relaxed horse. Those moments build the confidence you need for longer rides later on.

Finally, consider a quick check‑in with a trainer. A 15‑minute session can pinpoint any lingering habits you need to correct. It’s a cheap way to avoid bigger problems down the road.

Restarting riding doesn’t have to be a marathon. With short, focused sessions, proper equipment, and a lot of patience, you’ll be back to longer rides and bigger goals before you know it. So grab that reins, give your horse a friendly pat, and enjoy the ride back to confidence.