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Riding Program
Read on to learn more about our unique approach to starting young riders. All participants start with Private Lessons and work towards joining our group of young riders.
Sheltering Oak Farms’ youth riding program is a whole horse approach to equestrian life. Students learn how to build lasting relationships with their horses as well as how to properly care for and manage their horses needs. Riding is a phenomenal sport and extremely beneficial to participate in, but it is not the sole education necessary to understanding horses. Students learn valuable skills in horse care, management, and their horses health to allow their riding experience to truly flourish. The more they understand their horses as a whole, the better their riding experience and relationship will be with their horse. Not only are students learning about the whole horse, including riding, they are also participating with community based in a shared passion for horses.
Sheltering Oak Farms' youth riding program includes all disciplines so each student can try different styles of riding and pursue the discipline of their choice. Learning the different styles of riding improves overall balance and confidence in riding. Students learn proper dietary care of the horses in order to troubleshoot potential problems they may run into. For example, the horse seems more sensitive to leg pressure or the saddle; grazing before each ride can help ease overactive stomach acid and help signs of ulcers. The students will learn which needs their horse has and how to identify them and adapt their routine accordingly. Students learn proper fit of tack and gear, as well as, the ways tack interacts with the horses’ biomechanics to either hinder or advance their movement. Students learn about leadership and responsibility of interacting with horses, especially when interacting with a group consisting of other riders and different levels of activity.
All students start by learning to care for the horse and how to communicate with their horse via body language. Starting students with groundwork prior to riding creates a sense of confidence and familiarity with the horse. It greatly lessens any feelings of intimidation when faced with different challenges undersaddle (while riding). It allows for a confident start to their relationship with riding their horse and educating them on how to de-escalate a situation. Students have the opportunity to ride different horses of different breeds, levels of experience, and personality types. This allows each student to find their complimentary match in goals and characteristics.
Riding Program: Classes
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