It’s very well possible that you’ve been riding for years now, or you are just beginning to toy with the idea of venturing into this diverse sport. Whichever sounds the most similar to you, there is one thing you need keep in mind: choosing the trainer, barn, or instructor that is the most cohesive to your particular expectations while keeping some basic standards in mind, is the first and foremost imperative step into creating a successful journey into achieving your equestrian goals.Lets begin with the newest of newbies, the brave soul that is ready to venture into this industry that is driven by passion and very distinct personalities; face it: the horse world is FULL of characters who are FULL of great opinions on everything horse. Mouth, and word of mouth, is how this industry works. So that is why I state, that brave is the new soul that is ready to venture into this world. Once this is understood, the newbie needs to seriously consider what his or her main goal in wanting to learn to speak “horse” is. Riding lessons given by an equine professional is the perfect place to start; but there are many things to consider, because there are right ways, and there are wrong ways to go about choosing the right place to begin.I’ll cut right to the chase here. Have a general idea of what you want when you first venture to a stable to speak to a trainer or instructor. English? Western? Pleasure riding? Showing? Have a basic idea of your own personal goals, as well. Find a reputable facility that is particularly suited to what you are looking for. Simple research in your area can help you in your scouting.Now you’ve found your barn. Before signing yourself away to an immediate lesson, I strongly, STRONGLY suggest going to observe a lesson, if it is all right with the trainer, to get a general idea of his or her teaching techniques. Observe closely and pay attention to their instruction technique, and to the student’s response to the trainer. There are other things to watch out for as well-the condition and quality of the horses themselves, and the depth and detail in which the trainer instructs, with some amount of compassion. I recommend observing several different trainers and instructors in action before choosing a specific one for yourself. It’s little like car shopping, or dating. Keep searching until you find the one that fits cohesively to you.Once you have found your fit, and have actively expressed your goals and future plans in horses with your instructor or trainer, go ahead and throw your heart and soul into this sport. It’s demanding, dirty, disciplined, and difficult. It’s not a sport for the faint of heart, but with correct instruction and steady hands, and under the careful supervision of the right trainer for YOU, I can assure excellence in achieving your equestrian goals.