There’s one question I get asked at least once a week, by both ‘in-person’ riders, and online riders I’ve connected with. And just yesterday, I realised that, somehow, I’ve never actually answered it here! The question goes something like this:- “Should I have lessons? And if so, what kind; private or group?”. Some riders will also enquire about my thoughts on DIYing it!
And my answer, as with so many things in horse riding, is “It depends.” Because the truth is, where you are right now in your riding journey will determine what type of lessons, or combination of lessons, will help you move forward the fastest.
So today, let’s unpack the pros and cons of private lessons versus group lessons, and where they fit in your journey.
Beginners & Riders Rebuilding Confidence
If you’re at the beginning of your riding journey, or if your confidence has taken a tumble, my answer is easy.
Start with short, focused, and consistent private lessons. Private lessons give you time, space, and focused attention. You’re not worrying about someone trotting up behind you or cutting across your path. You can breathe, learn, and actually absorb what’s happening. Plus, by keeping them on the shorter side (I would say no longer than 30 minutes), you’re doing both yourself and the horse a favour.
Most beginner riders (and those returning after a break) aren’t “riding fit” yet. Thirty minutes of focused, one-to-one instruction will take you further than an hour of chaos and confusion in a group.
But I’d add a twist that most riders never think about… Watching lessons. Yes, really. Find a good instructor and sit with them during another rider’s lesson. The other rider that you’re watching should be ‘slightly’ further along than you are in their riding skills and abilities. This type of lesson is so valuable because your instructor will get to point out things that are often hard to ‘feel’ or comprehend when in the saddle as a beginner. Things like:-
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- The difference between sitting and posting to the trot
- How the diagonals work in the trot
- What “bend” or flexion actually looks like, etc.
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Watching someone else do the things, and learning from their mistakes makes it so much easier to understand when it’s your turn in the saddle.
And for nervous riders, watching can also help to calm your mind. You see that other riders can ride safely, happily, and confidently, which allows your brain to begin to accept that maybe you can, too. And that opens the doors to different possibilities.
Whoa, Go, & Steer Riders
If you can comfortably go, whoa, and turn without ending up in a collision, congratulations! I would say that this is the point where you can graduate to the group lesson phase. And this is really where group lessons become priceless. You get to both ‘see’ and ‘do’. You’ll see another rider perhaps make a mistake, and then you get to learn from it when your instructor explains why it happened. So often, you’ll have these ‘light bulb moments’. And all without having to actually make the mistake yourself!
Another benefit to group lessons are the breaks between when you’re actively doing the work. Because, let’s face it, if your not riding fit, your body and mind will need a chance to catch it’s breath – and mentally reset!
There’s also the motivation factor. A good group lesson creates momentum. Everyone’s cheering each other on and celebrating small wins together. These group lessons are fun, energizing, and inspiring, everything a mid-level rider needs to keep growing.
Happy Hackers
I know this is not a name all riders like to identify themselves by, but I feel it fits the bill here. You’re pretty good at handling yourself when riding in the arena – and equally as good at keeping the conversation with your horse safe and working forward outside of the arena. You’ve got the basics down. You’re competent, capable, and comfortable. But, you’re not quite sure what’s next.
That’s where the blended approach comes in. Group lessons and/or clinics help you stay connected, motivated, and learning from others. And when coupled with private lessons; you’re onto a winner!
The private lessons (even once or twice a month) give you targeted feedback on your specific goals; contact, canter transitions, or that sticky confidence moment that still lingers.
My one word of advice here is regarding mixing instructors. Maybe you have a local instructor you meet up with once a month with 3 other riders for a group lesson. And then a private instructor that you meet up with once a month online… Make sure they’re on the same page with your basics and your goals. They don’t need to agree on everything (few ever do!), but conflicting methods will only slow you down.
Finding Your Balance
At some point, every rider wonders: “Do I really need lessons? Can’t I just figure this out myself?” And of course, yes, you can ride on your own! But if you never get feedback, your training bubble starts to shrink. You and your horse get comfortable, too comfortable, and before you know it, you’re wandering instead of progressing.
Even a monthly check-in with a coach can make a world of difference. It keeps you accountable, motivated, and aware of what’s really happening in your riding.
Riding alone can be wonderful. But riding alone forever can make you stuck.
Connection
Inside Connection, we blend all of this together intentionally. Each month, we have a live virtual group lesson, where riders from around the world join in real time. Some are in the saddle; others watch and take notes.
Everyone learns something valuable, especially when we’re working on foundational topics like half halts (our focus for the next three months).
Then, there’s Connection VIP and Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. Both of these are built around the private one-to-one online riding lessons where we dig deep into your exact challenges, refine your aids, and build your confidence. This blended model, group learning plus private feedback, gives riders the best of both worlds.
So, Which One’s Right for You?
Ask yourself a few questions… Is it space, time, and quiet focus that you’re craving? If so, go private. However, if you want motivation, community, and new challenges… Group lessons are probably the way forward. And if you want the best of both worlds, then begin experimenting today with finding your blended rhythm.
Whichever you choose, make it intentional. And remember: the best riders in the world still have trainers.
Not because they’re not good enough. But because they know growth happens faster when someone helps you see what you can’t see yourself. Join the Connection membership today for monthly group lessons, live reviews, and ongoing support. Or explore Connection VIP and Restart & Reschool Private Coaching if you’re craving focused, one-to-one guidance.
Happy Riding
Lorna
Online Training & Coaching
Connect with Lorna online:-
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- Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
- Connect with Lorna on Instagram @lornaleeson or @stridesforsuccess
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