Riding Lessons

Sarah offers riding instruction on safe and sane Norwegian Fjord Horses.  For little people (of any age who weigh under 100 pounds) Chili Pepper a Welsh pony, is also available for lessons.  Advanced riders may have the opportunity to ride an upper level show horse.  Riders of all ages and experience are welcome. Riding instruction is done in English saddles, either all purpose or dressage, depending on which style fits the rider better and what the rider's goals are.  Instruction is based on classical dressage principles and is   focused on a practical control of the horse and understanding of how the horse/rider relationship functions.  Although body posture of the rider will be addressed (since form follows function) the goal is to develop a thinking, functional rider, not just a pretty looking rider. 

Why Forth Downs is different:

Each horse in our lesson program was trained, and is still being trained, by me.  I understand exactly what the horse can do and what the rider needs to do to perform a given exercise.

No group lessons.  I will focus on you and your riding.  I don't have a "program".  We will work together to meet your riding goals.  If showing is a goal of yours, we can work toward it, but I believe showing is a way to validate/demonstrate what you have learned, not an end in itself.  Several of my students entered dressage schooling shows in 2008 and found that showing confirmed their riding progess and boosted their confidence.

No going round and round in the ring.  The horses have been trained by a series of exercises designed to gradually improve their balance, responsiveness, flexibility and althleticism.  The rider will be trained in these same exercises and will learn not only to sit on a horse, but how to develop a horse.  When riders have demonstrated to my satisfaction that they are in sufficient control of their mount, then trail riding in the open hills surrounding our property is an option.  Advanced riders may also be given the opportunity to occasionally ride on their own to practice their skills.

Any student who has an interest can also learn many horse and barn management skills on a "hang around and learn by helping ou" plan. Here Monical is shown learning how to do a trace clip.

 

I understand the economic times are hard. I appreciate students who are wanting to work off their expenses by doing barn work and I am willing to work with you to make your riding affordable.

Beginners:
Beginners are those riders who need assistance to catch, groom, saddle and mount.  They will also get frequent sessions on the lunge line to develop their balance.  Beginners may go on the trail on  lead line or with an attendant. Beginner lessons are $45 each.  They will not necessarily go a full hour if the rider does not have sufficient endurance.

Novice:
Novice riders can catch, groom, saddle and mount on their own.  They need occasional lunge sessions.  They need a chaparone on the trail.  Novice lessons are about 40 minute long starting when the rider is mounted and ready to take instruciton.  Novice lessons cost $40.

Intermediate:
Intermediate riders can present themselves and their horse ready for instruction. Intermediate riders can walk trot and canter in the arena and go on short trail rides. Intermediate riders may be ready to show. Intermediate lessons cost $35.

Advanced:
Advanced riders have all the intermediate skills plus an added level of confidence which allows them them to occasionally work without a formal lesson.  Advanced lessons are $35, but come with a "free" practice session (subject to horse availability.)  

Shows:
Since I feel that showing is beneficial for my horses I do not charge a trainer fee for coaching you on my horse at a show. You will pay the entry fees and any ribbons you win are yours to keep.