Horseback Riding Lessons
We offer horseback riding lessons for all ages and experience levels. We teach an English riding style called saddle seat, which is designed for show horse breeds like the American Saddlebred. The saddle seat riding style is often considered the "base" of all the other horseback riding disciplines, so it's an excellent choice if you're just getting started, and a great opportunity to continue to hone and develop your riding skills.
All new riders start off with private lessons taught by riding instructors who specialize in working with beginner riders. As your skills develop, you'll have the opportunity to participate in group lessons, horse shows, and advanced instruction. We recommend all riders take at least one lesson per week.
Lessons are offered Monday-Thursday from 3:30-6:00 PM, and select Saturday appointments.
Schedule a lesson below, or call the barn at 920-722-9192.
Lesson Packages
What to Wear to Lessons
Please wear long pants, a form-fitting top, and sturdy, closed-front shoes with approximately a 1-inch heel. Tennis shoes are fine, but if possible, we suggest you wear something similar to a riding boot.
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Safety is our top priority at the barn. We have several ASTM/SEI-approved riding helmets available at the barn for you to use during your lessons. All youth riders are required to wear a helmet, and it is highly recommended for everyone else.
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As with any sport, after you have been taking lessons for a while, you will want to purchase proper equipment. This includes your own helmet, riding gloves, paddock-style riding boots, and "jods" (riding jodhpur pants with knee grips). We can provide shopping resources.
Your First Riding Lesson
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time so we can fill out the necessary paperwork and fit you with a helmet and saddle.
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First, you will be taught the basics of safety around horses. Each lesson allows time for grooming the horse before and after the lesson. This helps riders get comfortable working with horses on the ground, and also allows them to bond with each horse they ride!
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We typically start off new riders on a "lunge line", which is a long rope attached to the horse's bridle, and our instructor holds the other end for extra control. You will learn how to walk, halt, and steer the horse. As you feel more comfortable, you'll be given an introduction to trotting and so on as you progress. Each lesson is tailored to fit your specific skills and confidence level, ensuring your success and joy in your riding journey.
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New riders will need to sign a waiver before riding. Download a copy below, or we have copies available at the barn.
Horse Shows
Once you have been riding for several months, you'll have the opportunity to participate in horse shows as part of our travelling show team. We don't require horse show participation, but many of our riders love it! Showing horses is a great way to build confidence and sportsmanship.
The riders in our lesson program compete in "Academy" level shows aboard the same horses they ride in lessons. Optionally, riders may choose to lease a specific horse for the show season.
Shows occur monthly from March-September in Wisconsin and Illinois. We also host a fun in-barn show each spring.
Cancellation Policy
We understand things come up and life happens. If you're unable to attend your scheduled lesson, please call at least 24 hours in advance to cancel. Riders that do not provide reasonable notice may still be charged for their lesson, as our instructors and horses have been reserved for your success. Please note, we reserve the right to cancel lessons due to weather, instructor illness, or for any other safety concern. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
