Some riders require the assistance of 1-2 side walkers to ensure their safety while

mounted. Side walkers greet riders when they arrive until the instructor and horse are ready. Side walkers walk alongside the riders to ensure safety and help facilitate the lesson under the guidance of the instructor. Side walkers may be asked to demonstrate or help the riders with specific tasks,

support or assist the rider physically, or facilitate games or activities as directed by the instructor. Side walkers may also be asked to assist with the mounting and dismounting of riders from the horse. Side walkers must be able to take direction from the instructor, work cooperatively with others, and be safety conscious at all times. Side walking does not require prior knowledge or experience with horses and specific training will be provided.

Physical Requirement: walk 30 mins, maybe jog short distances.

As a side walker, your main role is ensuring the safety of the rider in routine lessons and as

well as in case of an emergency. The rider is your primary focus.

● During a lesson, you will be walking alongside the rider and may be asked to provide physical support, assist the rider with completing a riding skill or playing a game, and/or reinforcing instruction.

● Although your primary concern is with the rider, you must be comfortable around and aware of the horse at all times.

● Throughout the lesson, stay at the rider’s knee whether performing a physical hold or not - do not drift back to the horse’s flank (danger zone!!!).

● Every few strides you should glance at the rider to check his/her position and comfort. Alert

the instructor to any potential issues.

● Avoid leaning on the horse while providing physical support/assistance.

● Please keep chatting to a minimum with riders and other volunteers.

● Help the rider maintain focus on the instructor. Reinforce instruction and assist when

necessary - don’t take away the challenge, engage the rider.

● Be patient; give the rider lots of time to process instruction before repeating or assisting.

● NEVER leave the rider to pick up dropped toys or equipment, always stay with the rider.

● Emergencies can and do happen with horses and riders. In the event of an emergency, only take the rider off the horse if instructed to do so.

● Please do not take calls or answer text messages during class. Additionally, we ask that your phone be placed on silent mode so that ringing and other alert sounds do not distract our riders and/or horses.