Your First Riding or Polo Lesson in Surrey: What to Expect
Thinking about trying horse riding or polo, but feeling a little unsure? Perhaps you have never sat on a horse, haven’t ridden since childhood, or have watched polo and wondered whether you could give it a go.
Your first riding or polo lesson in Surrey is an opportunity to try something new, meet the horses and discover what you enjoy. At Minninnooka in Chobham, we welcome children and adults, with coaching that starts from your experience, confidence and goals.
You don’t need to arrive feeling confident. That’s something we can build together.
Your First Riding Lesson in Surrey: Start with Confidence
Beginner riding lessons are about getting comfortable with the horse and learning how to communicate clearly.
Your coach will guide you through the basics, which may include finding a balanced position, holding the reins, moving off, stopping and steering. The session develops at a pace suited to you.
Small achievements matter. Understanding how to ask your horse to walk, making a turn or simply feeling more relaxed in the saddle can make that first lesson memorable.
If you are returning after a break, tell us what you enjoyed before and anything you feel nervous about now. Your starting point should reflect how you feel today.
Your First Polo Lesson in Surrey: No Experience Needed
You don’t have to be an experienced rider to try beginner polo lessons at Minninnooka.
Depending on your confidence and experience, your introduction may include basic horse control, learning how to hold and swing a polo mallet, and trying simple stick-and-ball exercises. Your coach will introduce the game in manageable steps.
Already ride? Polo gives you a new way to use your balance, coordination and riding skills. Completely new to horses? We’ll help you establish the foundations.
There’s no expectation to play a match on your first visit. The aim is to enjoy learning and leave with a clearer idea of what comes next.
What Happens Before Your Introductory Lesson?
Please arrive 15–20 minutes early so there is time to meet your coach, discuss your experience and fit your equipment.
When booking, share your height, weight, riding experience and confidence level. This helps us select a suitable horse or pony.
Tell us what you would love to try, too. You might want a new hobby, more confidence around horses or an activity to enjoy as a family.
What to Wear for Beginner Riding and Polo Lessons
Choose comfortable trousers or leggings, suitable layers and boots with a small heel. Avoid loose scarves and very baggy clothing.
Helmets are available to borrow. Some boots are also available, but sizes are limited, so check with us beforehand if you need them.
You don’t need to buy a complete riding wardrobe before discovering whether you enjoy it.
A Different Journey for Every Rider
At Minninnooka, we teach both English riding and polo, with an emphasis on understanding horses as well as developing skills in the saddle.
Some riders want relaxed, regular lessons. Others enjoy working towards chukkas, matches and team polo. Children and adults can have very different ambitions—and those ambitions may change along the way.
Your first lesson is a starting point. We’ll help you find a next step that suits you.
Book an Introductory Lesson in Surrey
Whether you are curious, excited or a little nervous, we would love to welcome you to Minninnooka in Chobham, Surrey.
Come and meet the horses, get to know our coaching approach and take your first step into riding or polo.
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