Learn horse riding with our sport & fitness short courses in Sydney!
Ever dreamed of riding a horse but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly course is the perfect introduction to the world of horses and riding —designed for complete beginners and those with limited experience who want to feel confident in the saddle.
You’ll enjoy a mix of theory and practical riding sessions, covering everything from understanding horse behaviour to tacking up, steering, and safe dismounting. Most of your time will be spent in the arena, getting hands-on with the horses and building your riding skills in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.
Whether you're taking your very first ride or picking up where you left off, this fun and informative course will give you a solid foundation in horse riding and horse care.
By the end of this horse riding course, you should be able to:
- Correctly tack up a horse
- Mount and dismount safely
- Maintain a balanced, secure position in the saddle
- Walk, trot, and steer a horse using basic riding aids
What will be covered in this course?
- Understanding horse behaviour and body language
- Grooming a horse and preparing to ride
- Identifying and using correct riding gear
- Tacking up a horse
- Mounting and establishing a secure position in the saddle
- Walking, steering, and using basic aids for control
- Dismounting correctly and safely
- Untacking and providing basic aftercare
Eastside Riding Academy
Centennial Parklands Equestrian Centre
114-120 Lang Road
Centennial Park, NSW 2021
There is free on-site parking for up to two hours at the top of the property. Enter through the boom gate, which opens automatically as you approach. Please turn left after the gate and follow the 10km/h speed limit.
Tip: Google Maps may direct you to the Entertainment Quarter. Eastside Riding Academy is located in the suburb of Centennial Park—not inside the park itself.
Traffic can be heavy around the centre, especially during evenings and weekends. Please allow plenty of travel time.
Equipment provided:
- Riding boots and helmets (included in course fee)
What to bring:
- Long socks (to prevent rubbing from boots)
- Flexible pants for ease of movement
Please note the following:
- Weight limit: 85kg maximum
- Minimum age: 16 years (this course is not suitable for children)
- Arrival time: Please arrive 15 minutes early to be fitted for your gear and complete the waiver (if not already submitted)
- Make-up lessons: One make-up lesson is permitted per five-week course if at least 24 hours’ notice is given. A medical certificate is required for notice under 24 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, showers, and a water dispenser are available on-site
- Weather: Lessons run in all weather. Stables and arenas are undercover and lit for evening sessions. In the case of severe weather, Eastside Riding Academy will contact you directly
- Health & Safety: This is an active course. Please inform your tutor of any medical conditions or injuries that may affect your participation. Students must arrive on time to complete the WH&S briefing or may be excluded from that session