Beginner: A rider with very limited experience, is unable to mount and dismount unassisted, and unable to post to the trot or canter.
Novice: A rider who has some riding experience, is able to mount and dismount unassisted, is in control of a well-behaved horse and confident for short periods of rising trot and canter.
Intermediate: A rider with all of the novice skills, has a firm seat, is comfortable at all paces and capable of riding for several hours at a time. The intermediate rider is also able to tack up a horse if required.
Experienced: A competent and regular rider who is capable of adapting to different horses in different environments. An experienced rider has soft hands and is able to control a spirited horse in open country.
