WESTERN RIDING
The Fundementals
Western riding classes help riders develop a strong bond with their horses and build essential riding skills, while connecting with others who share a love for this style of riding.
Key elements 🐴
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Deep Seat - Riders learn to sit comfortably and centered in the saddle, allowing them to move naturally with the horse.
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Light Hands - Gentle contact with the reins is emphasized, encouraging riders to use their legs for guiding the horse instead of pulling on the reins.
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Balance and Feel - Riders focus on understanding and sensing their horse's movements, enabling them to respond effectively.
Evaluation Requirements for Participation
To ensure the safety and proper skill placement of all participants, the following youth must have their horsemaster levels evaluated BEFORE registering for their chosen class:
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First-Time Participants: All riders joining for the first time, regardless of their horsemaster level.
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Level Advancement: Any past participant wishing to progress to a higher horsemaster level.
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New Horse Entries: Returning participants who will be riding a different horse.
Class Info
Class fees are $60.00 per class
*Participants must be 8 years old by January 1st(current year) or older*
Patterns, gaits, and all activities will be at discretion of the instructor and may vary in order to maintain safety. Please be sure that your horse and you fit the criteria for the class.
Western 1
For riders with minimal experience.
Class Overview
This class introduces essential Western riding skills, focusing on control, balance, and effective communication with the horse. It also encourages a deeper understanding of the bond between the rider and their equine partner.
Fundamental Skills:
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Leading, tying, mounting, and dismounting
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Correct hand and body positions
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Balancing and steering
Gait Techniques:
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Walking, trotting, and potential loping (instructor's discretion)
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Backing
Exercises and Drills:
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Basic maneuvers and control exercises
Required Horsemaster Level
Level 1 - Mounted Skills
Western 2
For riders with intermediate skills.
Class Overview
This class builds on the basics learned in Western 1, enhancing communication with the horse. It introduces techniques designed to boost the rider's confidence and overall skills.
Fundamental Skills:
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Refined hand and body positions
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Improved balance and steering
Gait Techniques:
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Controlled walking, trotting, and cantering
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Smooth transitions between gaits
Advanced Skills:
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Introduction to circle work and leads
Exercises and Drills:
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More advanced maneuvers and control exercises
Required Horsemaster Level
Level 2 - Mounted Skills
Western 3
For riders with intermediate skills.
Class Overview
This class focuses on refining Western riding skills, with an emphasis on precision while introducing advanced Western techniques.
Fundamental Skills:
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Refined hand and body positions
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Exceptional balance and control
Gait Techniques:
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Controlled walking, trotting, and cantering
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Smooth transitions and responsiveness
Advanced Skills:
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Bending and flexing the horse
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Intro to advanced patterns (circles, figure eights, serpentines)
Exercises and Drills:
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More advanced maneuvers and patterns, both on and off the rail
Required Horsemaster Level
Level 3 - Mounted Skills