So after some great insight from members here and a little bit of fate, I did my first group lesson today. A ladies group of 6, 4 of which were around my age or older, and a couple of young girls. It was definitely positive in a few ways.
Although I didn't get as much specific instruction, seeing others riding first hand was invaluable. Mixed abilities from a long term rider and highly qualified instructor to a relative beginner (not as beginner as me though).
I rode my usual boy, and we actually worked pretty well. I was curious about how he was around other horses but he was fine (no surprises but it's all new to me). We did our thing but maybe there is a bit of groupthink sometimes. We had to sit out the cantering naturally (that's for a private lesson) as I haven't cantered, but watching others made it LOOK easy and graceful which was a learning for me (the flexibility to move with the horse).
Feeling positive about some lightbulb moments, and rising trot on the straight is now feeling quite natural. Turning was working most of the time and we did trot poles a few times with mixed success but I feel like each time is getting a little bit less messy at the end.
It was definitely productive time in the saddle experience and practice.
We finished off with a cup of tea and general chatting about riding and life in general.
I know that groups can be hit and miss, but little by little I'm finding a great way of life.
Although I didn't get as much specific instruction, seeing others riding first hand was invaluable. Mixed abilities from a long term rider and highly qualified instructor to a relative beginner (not as beginner as me though).
I rode my usual boy, and we actually worked pretty well. I was curious about how he was around other horses but he was fine (no surprises but it's all new to me). We did our thing but maybe there is a bit of groupthink sometimes. We had to sit out the cantering naturally (that's for a private lesson) as I haven't cantered, but watching others made it LOOK easy and graceful which was a learning for me (the flexibility to move with the horse).
Feeling positive about some lightbulb moments, and rising trot on the straight is now feeling quite natural. Turning was working most of the time and we did trot poles a few times with mixed success but I feel like each time is getting a little bit less messy at the end.
It was definitely productive time in the saddle experience and practice.
We finished off with a cup of tea and general chatting about riding and life in general.
I know that groups can be hit and miss, but little by little I'm finding a great way of life.
