| Programs for Riders |  |
Lessons
Our private and group lessons are designed to encourage and support riders as they work to achieve their riding goals. Our program guides riders through the following progressive riding levels that are applicable to both hunter/jumper and dressage riders, except as noted. For dressage riders, work at the level appropriate for each pair will be structured based on the USEF tests, with a strong emphasis on body position and developing feel through connection with the horse.
Level D
- Horse and rider are working on the very basics, but able to do work at the walk, trot, and canter
- Rider is learning correct position on the horse and foundations for administering correct riding aids
- Beginning to work on 3 point and 2 point positions and able to maneuver through simple exercises in all 3 gaits
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Level C - Rider and horse have accomplished all the requirements for Level D. In addition:
- Work on exercises to develop a stronger understanding of the aids
- May be asked to do cavaletti work, suppling exercises such as lateral work, serpentines, some riding without stirrups
- Foundation of understanding how the rider's seat and leg influence horse's stride through introduction of collection and lengthening
- The horse should understand basic rider aids and should be comfortable with the 3 gaits and able to collect and lengthen stride, stay supple and calm through the exercises being asked of them
- Hunter/jumper: Horse and rider will be asked to start work over cross rails and basic grid work
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Level B - Rider and horse have accomplished all the requirements for Level C. In addition:
- More focus on lateral work, developing suppleness to allow for control of horse's body placement
- Introduction to flying lead changes with counter-canter work and other balancing exercises
- Hunter/jumper:
- Rider may be asked to jump without stirrups, negotiate tighter turns
- Jumping courses 2'6" to 2'9" in height, working on negotiating distances to fences using balancing techniques to lengthen/shorten stride, learning to ride a pace to meet the distances of a 12 foot stride
- Walking and designing courses to prepare horse and rider for the show ring
Level A - Rider and horse have accomplished all the requirements for Level B.
- Refinement of flat work, including lateral work, flying lead changes
- Hunter/jumper:
- Jumping courses 3'0" to 3'6" and above in height, including spread jumps (both water and oxers) and other advanced exercises
- Ability to negotiate different distances and sharp turns comfortably