Introduction to Riding
Daily riding sessions
In small groups of three, students learn the fundamentals of proper English horseback riding.
With an emphasis on correctness and safety, students will learn how to mount, dismount, walk, and trot.
Building upon equine communication learned in the other sessions, students will learn the language of riding, communicating so the horse and rider understands each other and work together.
Ride
Students learn the correct riding position from which they can learning to communicate with their horse; steer and begin learning to trot. Instructors teach exercises for strength, coordination, and stability during riding.
Discover
Students learn how to communicate through body language as they feel the incredible movement of riding a horse.
Empower
With specialized teaching horses, students are able to feel the freedom of independently controlling a horse or pony.
Program details
Understanding your teacher.
The horse is the teacher!
When in the saddle, every horse has a different movement. We teach you the basics of your position, but the horse shows you how to move.
Pressure & Release.
Pressure is how riders communicate to their horses when mounted. Especially in English riding, the rider’s leg is in close contact with the horse. Expanding upon the fundamentals learned in other sections, riders gain skills to lead horses and when riding to apply the right pressure with their legs and body to move guide the horse.
Problem Solving.
Even the best teaching horses present daily ‘problems’ for riders to solve. Were the riders’ instructions clear? How can you work with your horse to get your desired solution?
Trust.
As participants find their riding balance, they will place trust in the horse and horse handler. The instructors challenge the riders to test their physical skills in a new and changing environments.
Focus.
Horse riding requires a lot of attention - not only are you learning skills for yourself, but you are working with an animal!
Leadership.
Building upon non-riding leadership skills with horses, students quickly learn that as riders, they must be the leader.
Hosted at one of Metro Vancouver’s premiere equestrian facilities
Richmond, British Columbia