Riding Lessons

Learning correct and classical riding principles is tremendously challenging. Once a solid foundation is built for the horse and rider, both can grow within it. With consistency and a proper attitude, this pursuit can be very rewarding.

At Equilibrium, we know that teaching horsemanship is like teaching school. Your students learn the same subject every year. As each student progresses, you give them a little more information in any given subject area. We have developed a program that has well-established goals appropriately challenging both the beginner rider as well as the advanced competitor.

Riding instruction seldom relies on revolutionary teaching; rather, it relies on the same tried and true basic concepts - like building blocks - you keep building upon what you’ve already learned, and expand students’ skills as much as each student can perform at that moment in time.

Of the physical riding and techniques we teach and the philosophy we work toward, the most important aspects stressed are respect for the horse, good attitude, safety, and relaxation. All too often, people feel that in order to be an accomplished equestrian they have to win in horse shows; we emphasize testing your skill and performing at your best. We seek to live in the truth of the moment. Current Lessons Fees

Equilibrium’s riding school offers 80 acres of wooded trails, open fields, a cross country jumping course, an indoor arena, and many horses and ponies to accommodate your personal riding needs. For over ten years we have provided an equestrian outlet for friends, families, and serious competitors.

For those beginning riding lessons with us we require an initial 1/2-hour private lesson, which gives an instructor a chance to advise a student and gives the rider an opportunity to become acquainted with our equestrian program. Each student will then be placed into an appropriate group or private lesson. Call 410-721-0885 to schedule your first lesson.

Although we teach lessons every day, we demark, for payment purposes, a semester program. Semesters usually run for 10 weeks. Payment for a semester of lessons is due before the semester begins. If you begin lessons in the middle of a semester, the fee is prorated. If you choose not to participate in our semester program, you may take lessons on a call-in basis. Call-in lessons, which are offered at a slightly increased rate, are available when there is an opening in a scheduled lesson. It is your responsibility to call in to determine the availability of lesson slots.

Riders in our group lessons are placed according to ability and knowledge. As riders progress in their regular group lessons, the instructor will evaluate their readiness to move into an Advanced Placement (AP) class. AP classes cover advanced theories of riding and horsemanship.

Our college-educated, certified instructors offer a high standard in teaching. Our staff caters to both the child rider and the adult and pays special attention to those who may be timid. The staff at Equilibrium is eclectic in the areas of personal riding interests and teaching styles; however, all riding instructors here are well qualified and have similar goals for our students: relaxation, safety, and a solid, all-around knowledge of horses and riding. In the event that your usual instructor cannot be there for your lesson, another instructor will be assigned to help you on the path to exceptional horsemanship.

Our horses can be tacked and ready prior to each lesson. Assistance will be given for bridling, if necessary. If you wish to groom and tack your horse prior to the lesson and/or use your own saddle, notify your instructor, and you will be given the opportunity to prepare your own horse.

All lessons include time at the beginning for walking to the arena, girth and stirrup adjustment, and mounting. Time is also allotted at the end of each lesson to cool down the horses.

For your safety, approved riding helmets and hard-soled shoes with a heel must be worn. Riding pants, chaps, or long slacks and tall boots or paddock boots are recommend for your comfort.

Makeup Lessons:

We know holidays may put a crimp in your schedule. If you let us know of your plans early in the semester, you may pre-schedule your makeup lessons. You are allowed to ride your makeup before or after your missed session. 24-hour advance notice of an absence is required for eligibility for a makeup. All makeups must be completed by the last day of your current semester. Makeups cannot cross semesters, and there are no guaranteed makeups. Scheduling a makeup is your responsibility.