Adult Lessons
Horseback Riding Lessons
Valley Ridge Farm, Inc – Morgantown, WV
Valley Ridge Farm runs a semester based lesson program. Riding is an endeavor that requires consistent practice to grow and improve, which is why we have a minimum requirement of one lesson per week. Students will ride in regularly scheduled weekly lessons, and can track their achievements as they progress through our riding levels curriculum. One, two, and three lesson per week plans are available. It is possible to join the lesson program at any time throughout the semester. For students welcomed into the lesson program after the semester has started, your tuition will be prorated. Along with lessons, the Future Equestrian Club (ages 7-11) and Horsemanship Classes (teens and adults) are offered throughout the semester at no charge exclusively for our riders to educate them on unmounted skills!
-Small, congenial groups matched according to age & experience
-Well-trained horses & ponies of all sizes
-Close supervision on the ground and on the horse by trained professionals
In addition to being an exciting and challenging sport, the process of engaging in equine sports offers a relaxing, social environment for both adults and children — a perfect escape from everyday tension and stress. Although competition is available in the program, it is not necessary to compete in order to enjoy riding. The process of developing awareness and control of the body and its relationship to the horse makes the learning process itself an inherently rewarding experience.
Tuition payments are paid on a monthly basis and are automatically charged on the 15th of the month to a credit card kept on file.
Time off is scheduled into the semester for holidays, breaks and extra activities. There will be no regular lessons during these times. Special events, shows, and clinics may be added throughout the semester, and will be posted on our website and our Facebook page, Valley Ridge Farm- Clients Only.
Adults who are new to riding or need a refresher will start with our Adult Beginner Course. ABC is a 4 week course which covers basic horsemanship skills and safety, and an introduction or refresher to proper riding fundamentals. At the end of the four weeks, riders will have their riding level assessed so they can enter our regular lesson program.
SCHEDULE AN ASSESSMENT OR INITIAL LESSON
To schedule an appointment for lessons, please call Valley Ridge Farm, Inc at: 304-864-2267 or email us at: [email protected]
A Teaching Philosophy Based On Strong Fundamentals, Support & Positivity
The Valley Ridge Farm teaching philosophy emphasizes a reliance on teaching the fundamentals of classical equitation to a high degree of competency. This includes balance, calmness, and coordination. In other words, learning correctly from the very beginning. We pride ourselves on training skilled, independent riders, not instant riders. Our instructors take the time to explain to each rider not only what to do, but the reasoning behind why they are asked to do it. At Valley Ridge Farm, we aim to teach students so that they can learn to communicate clearly through their aids so that their horse will respond correctly. We firmly believe that it is important that our riders learn in a supportive and positive atmosphere, and we strive to continuously provide constructive suggestions on how to correct the negative.
Our Riding Style: Hunt Seat/English Balance Seat Equitation
The particular style of riding taught at our facility is known as Hunt Seat/ English Balance Seat Equitation. It was developed from over three decades of teaching experience and relies on a practical workman-like approach to the horse and riding, both mentally and physically. It emphasizes the fundamentals of balance and relaxation, and aims to produce correct habits from the start. From the fundamentals of classically correct flatwork to Hunter, Equitation, and Show Jumping, our students receive a broad skill base with a firm foundation.
Riding Can Be Taught, But Never Mastered
Riding is a skill that can be taught, but never completely mastered, and as such, the education of any rider is continually evolving. We encourage the continuation of all of our students’ educations through the avenues of competition, clinics with nationally recognized professionals, and in-house training programs.