English or Western Riding: Which Should A Newbie Choose?

Last week I got a text from a long-time friend (and my former roommate of 9+ years) that said she was thinking about taking riding lessons: should she choose English or Western. My first thought was: YES!!!

And then I thought, I don’t really know what to tell her. Both are great options. Any moment in the saddle is a joyous occasion regardless of what that saddle looks like. Do you agree? English or Western: there is no wrong answer.

Obviously, because I ride English on Knight my Thoroughbred (hunter/jumper), I’m biased toward that pursuit. And in my brain I flashed forward to the day my friend, who is really more like a sister, would be able to ride Knight; she could take on the role of protective auntie.

My sweet friend who just might be the next convert to horse crazy.

We could enjoy my horse together. I could video her riding in the arena and vice versa. I could borrow a horse and we could go on trail and drink in the glory of the sage and eucalyptus. Awww. . .

Then I caught myself and realized this is not about me or Knight–it’s about a full-grown adult potentially transitioning into a budding equestrian/horse girl. The thought arose: what does she hope to get out of riding? Community? Exercise? A way to de-stress after work?

And so I texted back a few initial questions followed by “let’s talk more about this in person this week!”

BTW: My year old, 18 inch County Innovation (extra narrow tree) will soon be for sale. Email me if interested. 🙂

Before I see her, I thought I’d get your input. So I’ll tell you a few details about my friend which might or might not be pertinent in the English v. Western advice giving.

Facts About My Friend

1. She grew up on a farm and is comfortable with barn smells (I think she actually likes them).
2. She enjoys all animals (except for too-intrusive dogs).
3. She never had a horse or got to ride a lot, but she has ridden.
4. She seems confident around horses from the ground.
5. She relocated to this area (Orange County) about a year ago.
6. She is physically strong and looks adorable in workout clothes.

Please Comment: So, devoted horse fans, what are your thoughts? Should she chooes English or Western? How would you advise my friend to make her debut into riding and the horse world?