WHAT DO I WEAR?
For optimal safety you should wear boots with a low heal (not high heels). You should also wear long pants, jeans or other durable pants (shorts will not be permitted) - do NOT wear slippery pants.
Also, don't wear anything that makes too much noise. Horses can be easily spooked, and wearing fabrics that make a lot of noise can cause unexpected results.
SAFETY FIRST
At New Trail Farm we take the safety of our clients and horses very seriously. Everyone is required to wear a helmet during arena work and obstacle work.
FAMILY, FURRY FRIENDS AND PHOTOS
Family is always welcome to attend and watch lessons - we have a little viewing area with a bench for you to relax and enjoy. Please however, don't bring your furry friends with you. Even though our horses are used to dogs, most dogs aren't used to horses. Lesson time is not when we want to make that introduction.
WHAT IF IT RAINS?
It depends is the best answer. With our new indoor riding facility we will have mounted lessons in most weather. If it is raining to hard to safely or comfortably ride we will use that opportunity to have an indoor horsemanship day. Horsemanship days play an important part of your education. We will have a variety of games/activities related to nutrition, horse anatomy and horse husbandry. If you haven't heard from us on the day of your lesson, give us a call or text. Don't worry - rain doesn't last forever, and we'll be out riding in no time!
DO PARENTS NEED TO ACCOMPANY CHILDREN?
No, not unless you would like to (and many do!) We've got a comfy spot right next to the arena for parents to sit for lesson time.
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE?
We offer lessons for clients as young as 5. At that age most will start and remain on a lead line for a few lessons. Many progress off the lead line to steering and riding the horse on their own.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Each lesson will start with grooming and tacking the horse, followed by a warm up and lesson plan. This will vary between arena work, obstacles and trails. We end each lesson with cooling down, un-tacking and grooming (and of course treats!) Many people are suprised at the amount of time that it takes to get a horse ready to ride. Here at New Trail Farm believe this is an important part of becoming an equestrian. It builds your bond with the horse, before any riding even happens.
QUESTION NOT ANSWERED?
Feel free to shoot us an email if you still have a question.