Riding Lessons

BEGINNER LEVEL 1 AND LEVEL 2 PROGRAM

CLASSES WEEKDAYS FROM 4:00 to 5:30 PM, SATURDAYS 10:30 TO NOON

More advanced students will be evaluated to determine which group best meets their needs.

Call (321) 431-0580 to schedule a lesson time

At Hidden Acres, Inc., we have developed a systematic approach of teaching correct, tried-and-true methods of horsemanship at every level and our primary goal is to ensure the safety of our riders and horses and to create a fun-learning environment. We believe in a well-rounded education and students will not only learn to ride, but will also learn stable-management, horse management, and all around horsemanship. Students will even be encouraged to find areas of improvement in other riders and assist newer riders in their progress to develop their eye and teaching abilities as well as their feel and riding abilities. As instructors, we understand the educational value of helping others.

All classes are limited in size and will be taught by an instructor and an assistant to allow for individual attention when needed. Private lessons are available for those with special needs. All instructors and assistant instructors are under the direct tutelage of Suzee and Shannon Norris and have been taught the importance of correct horsemanship and safety. We designed our facility and chose our horses to provide the tools for learning and development of all levels. As the cliché goes, developing a respectful, working relationship between human and horse is not a destination, but a journey. ENJOY THE RIDE!!!!

ORIENTATION AND BEGINNER CERTIFICATION LEVELS

Orientation Class (N/C):

Required for first-timers at our facility regardless of experience level. This is basic introduction to our staff, facility, horses and general way of life at Hidden Acres, Inc. The session will include all necessary paperwork, a tour of the facility and general information about safety. This is our most important session, ensuring safety and helping new students feel comfortable in their “new” environment. This class is approx. 1/2 hour and parents or guardians are required for paperwork and tour and are encouraged to audit the entire session at no charge.

Under 7 Junior Riders:

For safety reasons, younger riders may need more specialized attention. Therefore we have set aside sessions especially for these needs. Call for scheduling.

Level 1 Riders - Beginner Walk/Trot:

This level is appropriate for English or Western beginner riders and will focus on the position and balance of the rider and the control of the horse. Riders will learn the correct way to communicate with their mounts and develop their balance and confidence. Riders will also learn to canter individually (when ready). Un-mounted work includes proper grooming, tying, leading and understanding confidence and trust building exercises.

Goals for Level 1 Certification:

Groom horse properly without help
Tack up horse properly. Some assistance okay on individual basis, i.e. tightening girth, bridling tall horses, etc.
Correct leading including establishing communication with horse on the ground, i.e. teaching horse to stay with you as you stop, go and turn, catching and releasing horse in field and stall.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the predator vs. prey mind-sets and relationships.
Proper way to cross-tie and slip knot.
Riders must be able to walk and trot with out their stirrups and canter on their own in a round pen to graduate to Level 2.

Level 2 Riders - Beginner Walk/Trot/Canter with Ground Poles:

This level is also appropriate for English or Western riders and will introduce cantering, work over ground poles, and basic lateral work with the emphasis on fine-tuning the rider’s position and balance and developing control over the horse, including lateral control and longitudinal balance of the horse. English riders will develop a balanced jumping position. Level 2 riders are also eligible to sign up for trail rides and practice rides!

Goals for Level 2 Certification:

Must pass Level 1 requirements.
Demonstrate added control on ground, i.e. trot with horse, move horses front-end and hind-end, back horse up.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of communicating in horse language vs. people language and developing respect and trust with the horse.
Begin to recognize areas of possible improvement in other riders.
Riders must be able to walk, trot and canter without their stirrups.
Determine the correct diagonal and lead.
Work confidently over poles.
Demonstrate a turn-on-the forehand in each direction.

Additional Learning Opportunities:

Experience is the best teacher. The more you can spend time around horses and in the saddle the better your understanding will develop. There are many ways to gain addition riding experience on your own:

“Rent” a school horse to practice on your own (for Level 2 and up)
“Lease or Half-lease” a school horse (for Level 2 and up)
Sign up for a trail ride (for Level 2 and up)
Volunteer to help with barn-chores, cleaning tack, grooming and washing horses, etc.
Audit other lessons (this is a great one!)
Watch the instructors ride the training horses.