At Court Meadow RDA, a typical riding session is full of excitement, achievement, and plenty of smiles from the very start. When riders arrive at the stables, safety always comes first, and our experienced volunteers help make sure everyone is fitted with a riding helmet before heading into the arena. There, riders are introduced to their horse and given time to settle and build that all-important connection before being supported to mount up.
Once in the saddle, sessions usually begin with a gentle warm-up, which might include simple stretches of the arms and legs while seated on the horse to help improve balance and coordination. From there, lessons are filled with fun, purposeful activities designed to develop confidence, motor skills, core strength, and social interaction — from picking up bean bags or colourful rings and placing them in different locations, to guiding the horse through cones in slalom patterns. Some sessions may also include more advanced work such as warming up transitions or even a short trot, always carefully tailored to each rider’s individual ability and comfort.
We also sometimes include grooming and learning about horse care, giving riders the chance to brush their horse, build trust, and understand more about how to look after these amazing animals. These moments are often just as valuable as riding, helping to develop responsibility, empathy, and a deeper bond with the horses.
During warmer months, riders also enjoy the outdoor arena, and one of the real highlights of the term can be a guided walk out into the field with the horses — a moment many riders look forward to with great excitement. Every session is unique, but all share the same goal: helping each rider grow in confidence while experiencing the joy and freedom of being with horses.
