How to Follow Arena Etiquette While Horseback Riding

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Put on your helmet.

   If you’re in the arena, you should be wearing a helmet.
   
   Even if you are not mounted or even planning on riding, your presence in the arena requires a helmet.
2. 2

   Step 2: Mount outside the arena or in the middle of the arena.

   You should not mount where you will be in another rider’s way.
   
   Mount outside the ring and then walk into the ring on your horse.
   
   You can also walk your horse into the middle of the ring (where there is usually less traffic) and mount.
   
   Some rings also have designated mounting blocks in a specific place.Have someone hold your horse to keep both you and the horse safe while mounting.
   
   This will also protect already-mounted riders and horses nearby. , If you need to adjust your girth or your stirrups, always do so in a place that is not blocking other riders.
   
   Try to be fairly quick about adjusting your girth and stirrups., If you walk into the arena and most horses are travelling to the left, travel to the left with them.
   
   It is easiest for all parties involved if you mostly go with the flow of traffic. , If you are walking your horse in or out of the arena, be cognizant of people riding around you.
   
   Wait for a break in traffic before you cross the track to leave the arena. , Whether you are entering or exiting the arena, make sure that you close the gate behind you.
   
   You may need to dismount to do this.
   
   You should always close gates, even if you come upon it already open.
3. 3

   Step 3: Adjust your stirrups and/or girth either from the ground or in the middle of the arena.

4. 4

   Step 4: Go with the current direction.

5. 5

   Step 5: Give right of way to people on horses when you are on foot.

6. 6

   Step 6: Close the gate behind you.

Detailed Guide

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