Lessons

Our Philosophy
Here at Pinewood Riding Center we follow the time honored great British tradition; the teachings of the British Horse Society, the development of a correct, balanced, independent seat, with its roots firmly grounded in Dressage. Our emphasis is on teaching correct equitation, communication through the aids and firm basics. We use many school figures and equitation exercises to build skills and improve understanding; we avoid spending all of our time on the rail. Our students are able to compete in many disciplines as a result of our attention to the basics; dressage, hunters, jumpers, combined events and are secure enough to ride to hounds and over cross country fences.
We believe in positive reinforcement and constructive criticism for the best learning environment for our students, we do not believe in screaming at and demeaning our students which is usually a recipe for accomplishing much of nothing. Riders from age 6 and up are welcome; our current age range is 6-72 years. All beginning riders usually start their first lessons on the lungeline for safety and confidence.

Scheduling
Lessons are offered Monday-Friday and are by appointment only. Students are assigned a time each week for their lessons. Lessons are paid for on the first lesson day of each month for the month ahead. Lessons must be cancelled if you cannot make them or they will be forfeited, lessons cancelled in a timely fashion may be made up during the month in which they were paid for.

Structure
Our groups are structured according to rider ability level. Beginner groups are generally small, usually no more than 3-4 riders. We currently have 3 instructors and approximately 25 school horses, suited to all levels, first time beginner to advanced. Students may trailer in their own horses.

Attire
We encourage students to ride in appropriate riding clothes, i.e. breeches and boots, jodhpurs and paddock boots, chaps, half chaps. Helmets are mandatory for those under 21 and strongly recommended for all others. For beginning riders jeans and heeled footwear are acceptable until more suitable riding wear can be acquired. Spare helmets are always available.

All of our students catch, groom and tack their lesson horses, cool out, un-tack, clean up and put away when finished, the inexperienced receive help. Riders are expected to arrive on time for their lessons; at least a half hour before their lesson is due to begin. Your horse and instructor have been reserved for you. So please be on time.

Pinewood Riding Center offers:
Private 1 hour
Private 45 min.
Private ½ hour
Semi private 1 hour
Semi private ½ hour
Group 1 hour
*Please call for current prices.*

Work areas
Lessons are conducted in our:
66 x 168 fully enclosed and lighted indoor arena
150 x 220 outdoor ring
2 acre fenced jump paddock
50 acre field

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