The arena is a fenced and / or covered rectangular area set aside for training and riding horses. When it is outdoors it may be called a riding ring. These riding areas are usually 20 meters wide (approx. 65 feet) by 40 meters long (approx. 130 feet).

The track is the part of the arena where the horses normally work. The outside track follows the walls or fence and the inside track is about 3 meters (approx. 10 feet) inside of the outside track.

When you are riding on the track with your right side towards the center of the arena, you are on the right rein. When you are riding with your left side towards the center of the arena, you are on the left rein.

Rules of the Riding Arena
When riding in an arena with other riders it can become like a busy highway. It is important that you follow some important rules to help keep the traffic flowing and to prevent accidents.

1. Riders must close gates behind them whe they enter or exit the arena. Keeping the gates closed at all times ensures that horses will not bolt out of the arena. If gateways are small, it is a good idea for riders to dismount and lead their horses through the gate.
2. Be aware of others around you. Be careful not to cut anyone off.
3. Keep spacing at least 6 feet all around you when possible (or one horse length between riders). The rear rider should be able to see the heels of the horse in front of them. Keep out of bunches.
4. Horses working at slower gaits are given priority for using the outside track. Riders working at faster gaits must move to the inside track.
5. When riders are working at the same gait in different directions, those riding on the left rein are given priority for using the outside track. Those working on the right rein should move to the inside track. With this rule, riders can anticipate how they will pass oncoming riders, knowing they will pass left shoulder to left shoulder (like you would pass while driving a car).
6. When working at the walk, a rider should use the outside track to keep out of the way of faster horses, unless all horses are travelling at a walk.
7. If you must halt to adjust equipment, and so on, you should move off the track and to the center of the arena.
8. If you must stop on the rail or slow your horse to a slower gait, make sure there is space behind you for riders to respond to your transition.
9. When exiting the arena, do not rush. Leave the arena in single file.