1. Do I need to own a horse to take lessons?
No, you do not need to own your own horse to take horseback riding lessons, we have lesson horses. You or your child could ride
our lesson horses for years. One never has to own their own horse to enjoy the sport of horseback riding. We encourage you to
let you or your child learn as much as possible before purchasing your own horse.
2. Do you have private or group lessons?
We offer both group and private lessons. We recommend private lessons to start so we can determine your ability and we can be certain
our terminology is clear to you. Our typical riding lesson is a 1/2 hour private lesson under saddle. You will many want to schedule
time both before and after for on the ground instruction. Depending on your riding skills we do offer group riding lessons which run
45-50 minutes. We will structure our riding lessons to meet your needs or that of your group. We give riding lessons year around in our
large indoor arena. We suggest that you ride at least once a week to build skills and confidence with the horse. We encourage you to
ride as often as you can. Our lessons are tailored to all levels of riding.
3. Will there be other riders in the ring when I ride?
You will have your own instructor who will be dedicated to working with you, but depending on when you ride there may be others in the
ring with you. This will enable you to learn how to ride with and around other people and horses. There are times available when you
can be the only one in the ring but those times must be scheduled in advance.
4. What is a good age to start my child with lessons?
We give lessons to riders from age about 6 to 60+. We would be happy to discuss any situation you have regardless of age or handicap.
We do offer a tiny top program for riders under 6 years old. Please call and discuss your needs with our instructor.
5. How long and how much are lessons?
Private riding lessons are 30 minutes long and are $30.00. Group riding lessons are 45-50 minutes long. The length of the lesson is
dependent on the needs of the individual and group. Packages are available at a reduced rate. Discuss these with your instructor.
6. Will my child learn how to take care of the horse?
Your child can be provided with instruction on the care of the horse, however, initially we concentrate on riding and how to act around
horses and in the barn. Part of your lesson can be tailored to your specific needs and desires. For those riders wanting more instruction
we have a youth group and adult programs available.
7. Do you have a youth group or club?
Yes, the North Stars is a youth group affiliated with the American Saddlebred Horse Association. Additional information can be found here. As part of our lesson program, the youth group is free of charge once you join the American Saddlebred
Horse Association. See your instructor for more information.
8. I love horses but do not feel riding will be my thing. How
else can I get involved with the horses?
We give driving lessons as well as riding lessons. Driving is very challenging and fun. We also are a very active participant in Saddlebred
Rescue and you are welcome to join in on this experience. www.saddlebredrescue.com
9. What should I wear to my first lesson?
At your first lesson you should wear a helmet. A bike helmet will be ok at first, but if your child continues you will want to buy a riding
helmet. Also, you should wear boots with a hard sole and a heel. No tennis shoes. Again, if after your first couple of lessons it looks like
your child wants to continue, you will want to buy riding boots, a riding helmet, riding pants, and riding gloves.
10. Where do I find this equipment?
We have several catalogs from tack stores that have riding pants, boots, gloves, and helmets. We will be happy to assist you in
obtaining the equipment necessary.
11. Will I be able to show at horse shows?
Yes, several of the horse shows we attend have academy classes set up especially for riders that show on our school horses.
12. Do you have horses available for lease that we can show?
Yes, we have horses of various levels available for lease that you can both ride at home and show. We would need to discuss
your specific needs to provide you with detailed information.
13. If we want to purchase a horse do you have horses for sale?
Yes, we do have horses for sale. However we encourage you to take multiple riding lessons a week for a period of time before deciding
to purchase a horse. This will enable you to be far enough along in your riding to actually purchase a horse that can meet your needs
for more than just the immediate future. If we don't have the appropriate horse in the barn we will assist you in finding an appropriate
one outside the barn.
14. Will I be able to ride rescue horses?
Depending on your riding skills and availability of rescue horses that is a possibility that should be discussed with your instructor.
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