Riding Lessons
Lessons are one on one, ages 5 & up! A helmet, boots and jeans are required. Helmets can be borrowed for first appointments only. Adult students are welcome & all levels welcome!
Lesson Program Overview
Massa Stables offers a comprehensive, goal‑oriented Western riding program designed to develop safe, confident, and well‑rounded equestrians. Our curriculum is structured into clear levels—Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Intermediate—ensuring every rider progresses with purpose, proper technique, and strong horsemanship fundamentals.
Riders advance only when they have mastered the skills in their current level, allowing for consistent growth, confidence, and safety. Our program blends Western principles with key English fundamentals to create versatile riders capable of understanding balance, bend, body control, and effective communication with the horse.
Students learn far more than how to ride—they learn to handle, care for, and understand the horse as a partner. From groundwork and balance to advanced maneuvers, our program builds riders who are capable, compassionate, and prepared for long‑term success.
Program Breakdown
Beginner Level
Focus: Safety, confidence, balance, and foundational control
Riders learn:
Haltering, tying, leading, lunging, and safe handling
Grooming and cleaning feet
Saddling and adjusting equipment
Mounting/dismounting correctly
Balance exercises at the walk and trot
Steering with correct rein use
Stopping and backing correctly
Posting on the correct diagonal
Maintaining consistent gait and rhythm
Introduction to patterns and circles
Trot work on and off the lunge line
This level builds the foundation for all future riding skills.
Intermediate Level
Focus: Control, precision, and understanding of horse body mechanics
Riders learn:
Catching, grooming, saddling, and lunging independently
Balanced walk, trot, and lope with correct bend
Steering two‑handed at all gaits
Smooth stops and transitions
Backing patterns (including the “L”)
Leg yields at walk and trot
Sidepassing to open a gate
180° turnarounds with correct footwork
Posting diagonals consistently for 5 minutes each direction
Loping balanced circles, correct leads, and patterns
Rollbacks at the lope
Standing while loping without holding the horn
This level prepares riders for more advanced body control and refinement.
Advanced Intermediate Level
Focus: Refinement, collection, flexion, and advanced maneuvers
Riders learn:
Full independence in catching, grooming, saddling, bridling, and lunging
Riding in a snaffle with correct rein management
Yielding hips and shoulders with precision
Sidepassing over obstacles
Vertical and lateral flexion at walk, trot, and lope
One‑rein stops
Rollbacks, counter‑circles, and correct bend changes
Lead departures from the walk
Speed control at all gaits
Smooth, immediate transitions
Riding bareback at the trot and lope
Understanding how to influence shoulders, hips, and ribcage
Beginning counter‑work at all gaits
This level produces riders who are ready for discipline‑specific training or horse ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do we need for lessons?
Boots, jeans, and a riding helmet. Helmets can be purchased at Rural King or online. Students may borrow a helmet for their first lesson but must have their own afterward.
Are lessons year‑round?
Yes! We ride 365 days a year thanks to our indoor arena. Lessons may be rescheduled for severe weather.
Do students have to take weekly lessons?
No. Riders may schedule at their own pace, though consistent lessons lead to faster progress.
How do we pay for lessons?
Payment is due at the time of service. You may pay online or with cash.
What if a student doesn’t have riding goals yet?
That’s completely fine. Many students start without specific goals. We help them discover what they enjoy as they progress.
Do I have to start as a beginner if I’ve ridden before?
No. Your first lesson includes an evaluation so we can place you at the correct level.
Do you ever sell lesson horses?
Yes—occasionally, if a student and horse are a perfect match.
Can students show or compete?
Yes! Students must complete 52 hours of lessons and receive instructor approval before attending a show. Show fees apply.
I want to barrel race, jump, or specialize. Do you offer that?
Once a rider reaches advanced intermediate level and wants to pursue a specific discipline, we recommend purchasing their own horse. Competitive discipline training is best done with a personal equine partner.
Do we need to buy a horse eventually?
No. Many riders enjoy lessons without ever owning a horse.
If we do want to buy a horse, when should we start looking?
We strongly recommend waiting until the rider reaches advanced intermediate level. This ensures safety and helps us match you with the right horse.