ARENA ETIQUETTE

Call out when entering or exiting. Always assume that someone may be using the arena, and give a loud, polite warning before opening doors or gates to avoid startling horses and riders. “DOOR!” or “GATE!” are commonly used.

Ask permission to do ground work. Lunging and other ground work occupies valuable arena space; be courteous and respect other riders by not using the arena for unmounted activities if they would feel inconvenienced.

Mount and dismount out of the way. Stay off the rail when unmounted, and use the center of the arena to mount and dismount so as to not block the path of other riders along the rail.

Pass left shoulder to left shoulder. When riding at similar speed in opposite directions, pass other riders on the left to prevent collisions between horses. Be aware of your surroundings and the activities of other riders in the arena.

Yield the outside track to faster riders. When riding at different speeds, whether in the same direction or in opposite directions, allow other riders to pass on the outside track if traveling at a faster gait. Slower riders keep to the inside track.

Yield the outside track when circling. When riding on a circle, allow other riders to pass on the outside track so they may continue using the full length of the arena around the circle. Avoid excessive circling when the arena is very busy.

Keep at least one horse length between horses. Avoid crowding and riding up too closely behind other riders. Some horses require more personal space than others, so be accommodating if another rider asks for that consideration.

Work together. Everyone has the same arena privileges. Communicate with other riders to ensure that your use does not keep another rider from enjoying this space. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, so be kind and be helpful.

Cue quietly. Avoid accidentally cuing another horse by not using vocal or physical aids too loudly. Use of whips and crops should not be in a manner that frightens or touches other horses.

Announce your intentions. Err on the side of caution; speak up when appropriate to let other riders know if you will be approaching a jump or obstacle, changing direction of travel, changing speed, needing space for lateral maneuvers, etc.

Do not disrupt lessons or training rides. Other riders may use the arena during lessons or training rides, but keep in mind that clients paying for these services are entitled to a learning and training environment void of distractions.

Return jumps or obstacles to original position. Feel free to use the jumps and obstacles provided, but always be sure that they are put back precisely where you found them immediately after your ride.