Our adult beginner riding lessons are designed to help those who have little to no experience.
It’s never too late to start! We’ll work one on one so you’ll receive lots of individual attention. Lessons are one hour in length and are focused on ground work and riding skills. You will ride the same horse to help you develop a relationship and gain confidence.
Beginners Have An Advantage! It’s true! You start with a clean slate – no need to overcome old, ingrained habits. Progress at your own rate in lessons specifically tailored to meet your needs. My horses and I have developed a great partnership over the years. They are excellent schoolmasters for beginner level riders and will help you gain in knowledge and confidence.
Learn More About Our Adult Beginner Riding Lessons
Ground Work – we start here
The term “ground work” describes all activities done with the horse when not riding. We start from the beginning, learning how to catch, lead, groom, tack up and safely handle your horse from the ground. During these initial lessons, you’ll gain valuable insight on equine behaviour and psychology. This knowledge will be indispensable in developing a trusting and harmonious relationship between you and your horse.
Riding Skills
Once you’re ready to ride, you will be started on the longe line so I have control of the horse. You will learn how to ask the horse to walk, trot, halt and change from one gait, or pace, to the other. As you gain knowledge and skill you will be turned off the longe line, first at the walk, then at the trot.
Once you are able to safely and confidently groom and tack up your horse, you are required to arrive 30 minutes before the start of your lesson to get your horse ready for your ride. At this time lessons are 45 minutes in length and consist mainly of riding skills. If you would like to delve more deeply into ground work and round penning that is certainly an option.
Required Equipment
Required equipment are a riding helmet and riding boots. Greenhawk Harness & Equestrian Supplies, 7154 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay, has an excellent deal on a “Back To Lessons” package.
To Get Started Arrange A Meet & Greet
Contact me to arrange a time to come out to the stable to meet me and the horses and check out the facility. You are invited to watch a lesson to get an idea of my teaching style and see the horses under saddle. It will also give me an opportunity to talk with you about your past experience and where to go from there.
If you’ve had some experience, check out our “Get Back in the Saddle” page.
Sign Up For a 4 Lesson Trial
Each new student has the option of taking a 4 lesson trial before committing to a regular lesson program.
“Thank you so much Kathy! You were a godsend allowing me the opportunity and joy to ride again! You are so gifted in your knowledge and understanding of horses – I was very aware of being taught by a ‘master’ during every lesson!”