For many, one of the most fascinating activities one can experience in life is riding on horseback. Enjoying every corner that the natural environment offers can be truly thrilling, as it will make you feel completely free between the horse and yourself. 

However, you must bear in mind that before settling onto a horse's back - if you've never done it before - you need to know a series of basic concepts and rules to ensure every step while walking or trotting with the horse is perfect and you're completely safe. 

Horseback riding routes in Spain


Therefore, if you want to try horse riding under professional supervision, there are many companies specialising in these activities. They organise equestrian excursions for both adults and children, as truly anyone who wishes to can embark on this adventure.

The equestrian guide's advice leading and supervising the trail will be enough to take your first steps. However, we're particularly generous and will therefore explain all the basic concepts about horse riding so when you attend your appointment... you won't be going in blind. 

What equipment is needed for horse riding?


If you choose to experience horse riding through a company, they will normally provide all necessary equipment for you to enjoy the trail ride. 

The horse will be perfectly trained for the activity, so you won't encounter any problems, and will obviously be properly equipped with:

  • Bridle: consists of the reins, headstall and bit. These three elements allow you to control the horse and guide it along the trail. Handling will be straightforward. 
  • Saddle: known as the mount, this is where the rider sits. From it hang ropes ending in stirrups, where your feet are placed.
  • Helmet: horse riding is a safe activity, but as with any experience, it's better to protect ourselves to avoid future inconveniences. 
Something that sounds perfectly logical but might be unknown to many is that you should always come prepared with appropriate clothing when horse riding. Normally you should wear long trousers and riding boots. If you don't have riding boots in your wardrobe, the next best option is closed-toe shoes. 

Horseback riding in Madrid


A horse's skin is tough, and combined with the stirrups, trotting can cause friction leading to chafing, so it's best to prevent any discomfort. 

Dreaming of a career in horse riding?


If you know horses are your best friends and dream of a professional career or at least want to enjoy competitive riding with these magnificent equines, you should know how to differentiate some terms: 

  • Racing: one of the most common competitions where the horse gallops at high speed while the rider leans as far forward as possible with flexed legs. This allows the horse to free its hind legs to run even faster. The goal? To lead the racecourse or track. 
  • Dressage: demonstrates various movements the equine must perform at walk, trot and gallop. It involves exhibiting the animal's skills like circling in both directions or initiating the gallop with the front leg positioned inside the circular arena.
Many of these horses have undergone one of the most taught courses in Spanish equestrian centres: breaking in. Where the rider must teach the team to make lateral movements, advance or retreat simultaneously, etc. 

Horseback riding lessons in Spain



After this brief introduction, we encourage you to try a simple horseback ride. Afterwards you can decide whether to take lessons to perfect your techniques or simply enjoy pleasant moments astride such a noble animal.