Learning to ride at 40+ (horses, not bikes)

[LimaDelta]

Is this a stupid idea? I have a problematic hip and require mobility to work (i.e I can't sit at a desk at home in plaster), but quite fancy learning to ride. In fact I fancy jumping too. Am I guaranteed to be thrown and break something? Daughter is getting to pony age and I wouldn't mind joining in a bit.

I'm not completely risk averse. I fly light aircraft, cycle (on and off-road), and occasionally still motorbike, but non of those things exercise free will, and I know my limits and act accordingly.

[Chubbyross]

There’s a very high probability that you will fall off at some point, especially if you fancy jumping. Saying that, most falls don’t break bones or cause serious harm and the rider just jumps back on. I’d go for it. It takes a long time to learn properly and you’ll find a limit for yourself along the way.

[moorx]

LimaDelta said:

Is this a stupid idea? I have a problematic hip and require mobility to work (i.e I can't sit at a desk at home in plaster), but quite fancy learning to ride. In fact I fancy jumping too. Am I guaranteed to be thrown and break something? Daughter is getting to pony age and I wouldn't mind joining in a bit.

I'm not completely risk averse. I fly light aircraft, cycle (on and off-road), and occasionally still motorbike, but non of those things exercise free will, and I know my limits and act accordingly.

In view of your final statement, I would say no it's not a stupid idea. Lovely if you can find something for both you and your daughter to do/learn together.

I rode a little as a kid, then didn't do it for years. I was in my 40s when I had another go, with a friend, who knew of a good local stables. Unfortunately, it exacerbated her back problems so she couldn't continue and I then moved away. I did enjoy it for the short time I did it though, and loved the horse I rode.

I'm sure you would anyway if you're taking your daughter, but just make sure you find a reputable riding stables. By recommendation if possible.

[Esceptico]

I used to ride and jump every week for many years. When I was in my mid forties I did start wondering whether I should give it up. Back of my mind was that my daughter was still quite young. As you age you don’t bounce as well and it takes longer to recover from injuries (if you recover).

If you are jumping it is more a question of when rather than if you fall off. I hadn’t made a decision then got thrown off and broke my wrist badly, needing surgery to correct it. I’ve been back on a horse a few times and even done some jumping but decided to stop doing it regularly.

I’m not saying don’t learn but be aware of the risks.

[Scotfox]

I stared learning last year , age 55. I really enjoy it and find it a great stress buster. I've only just started to learn to jump a few cross-poles.
I'm not looking to compete . As others have said there are risks. However most things in life do. Find a school and instructor you like and trust. Buy a good helmet. If you keep going get yourself a body protector too. There's all sorts of levels and groups . Nobody judges you. Go have some fun !

[Jonathan27]

I started learning at 35, and would say that so long as you keep it fairly sedate then you ought to be fine. Also wear all of the protective kit including the vest.

[LimaDelta]

Some good advice there. Thanks everyone.

[CantDecide]

I started learning to ride at 46, along with my two daughters and wife. Almost four years later we have three horses and my daughter and I complete regularly (low level dressage, show jumping and cross country)… Have I fallen off, yes many times, have I been bruised yes many times, have I broken anything - no not from riding, although managed to slip in a dark muddy field and landed on a fence rail cracking a few ribs.

Would I recommend it, absolutely, give it a try see if you like it and just take it easy with lessons at a reputable centre. It’s a great, albeit expensive, hobby to get into especially with your child.

[The jiffle king]

Go for it!!! You will be treated well by most yards and they will put you on a schoolmaster who will not throw you off.

[joema]

sounds silly but dont wear boxer shorts and loose fitting trousers. Dangling balls and trotting on a horse dont go...!
What do you want from riding? Ownership of a horse or will it just be using riding school horses?