Riding Instructions - City Island Stables
- Marcy Brennen
- Dec 14, 2025
- 2 min read
Video Summary:
This instructional video walks riders through each step — from arrival to mounting and balance — with staff support throughout.
Step 1: Getting Started in the Stables
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into the barn where your horse is prepared for the ride.
Step 2: Helmet Selection
Safety first! Choose a helmet that fits your head properly:
Try different sizes to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
Hair must be down for a proper fit—no high ponytails or buns.
Once selected, secure the clasp under your chin.
Step 3: Empty Your Back Pockets
Before getting on the horse:
Move any items in your back pockets to the front.
This ensures a safer and more comfortable ride—for both you and your horse.
Step 4: Mounting the Horse
Follow the proper mounting process:
Approach from the left side.
Walk up the concrete mounting block.
Put your right leg over the horse to sit in the saddle.
Step 5: Adjusting Your Feet
Once mounted:
Place the ball of your feet in the stirrups.
Keep your heels down to stay balanced and maintain control.
Step 6: Saddle Positioning
Proper alignment is key:
Ensure the saddle horn is in line with the horse’s mane.
Your body should be centered over the saddle.
If off-balance:
Grab the saddle and shift your weight to the opposite side to re-center.
Step 7: Stay Balanced
Throughout the ride:
Hold onto the saddle horn in front of you, especially if you’re a beginner or feel unsteady.
How to Stop the Horse
To bring your horse to a stop:
Pull the reins straight back toward your waist.
Use even pressure with both hands and avoid jerking suddenly.
How to Steer
Controlling direction is simple:
Hold one rein in each hand.
Pull left to go left, and right to go right.
How to Get the Horse Moving
When you're ready to walk:
Give the horse a good kick with both legs.
This lets the horse know you're ready to move forward.
Trail Riding Rules
When on the trail:
Keep all horses in a single-file line.
Maintain a half-horse length of space between your horse and the one in front of you.
This spacing ensures safety and reduces the chances of horses getting too close or stepping out of line.
Avoiding Distractions
If your horse tries to snack on trail grass:
Pull up on the reins firmly but gently.
Encourage the horse to move forward and refocus.
Dismounting Safely
When the ride ends:
Come to a complete stop.
Wait for instructions from a staff member before dismounting.
Always dismount slowly and carefully to avoid startling the horse.
In Conclusion
City Island Stables takes safety and fun seriously. This video guide ensures every rider—from first-timers to returning guests—can feel confident mounting, riding, and interacting with their horse. If you’re preparing for a visit, rewatching the video or reviewing this post before your ride can help make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Comments