H O W
T O …
How To Choose a Lesson Barn A good lesson barn is important! Here are tips to find a barn that will work for you.
I
by Nancy Norton, Executive Editor
f you want to learn to ride, or have been thinking about changing your lesson barn, there are steps you can follow to help you find the best barn. You will improve your skills faster at a barn with a solid lesson program, and be safer while you learn. So how do you find a good lesson barn? Ask friends and relatives who ride for references. Tack shops can also be good resources. You can find some barns with websites, and others doing online advertising, so get online and search. Once you have a list, make appointments to visit before making a decision. Choose a barn that puts safety first. Barns teaching minors should always require a helmet, no exceptions. You should also have to wear long pants and boots or closedtoe shoes. Time your visit so you can watch a private and group lesson at your level, if you can. If you know what style of riding you are interested in, make sure the barns you focus on offer that style. This may sound like a lot of work, but it will pay off in the end. Once you go through these steps, it will become clear which barn is the one for you. It will just feel right! And if you make a good decision now, you will have a better learning experience, and a stronger chance to achieve the goals you set for yourself.
Questions to ask the barn:
What are your lesson horses like, in terms of age and training? • How many lesson horses do you have? • What is a typical first lesson like? • What are the ages of the students you currently teach? • What can you tell me about the background and credentials of the instructor? • What equipment will I need? • How much do you charge for lessons? •
Questions to ask yourself:
Do the horses look happy and healthy? • Is the owner and staff friendly? • Do I like the instructor I would take lessons from? • Is the barn clean and tidy or run down? Remember, some dirt is to be expected; it is a barn! • Do I want to compete? Choose a barn offering that opportunity. • Are there facilities for all the activities I want to try? • Are there fair but firm rules for everyone? n •
J U LY 2 0 1 2
l
Stylish and Individual Fashion Accessories
Isamiashop.com Free shipping to your door
H O R SE AN DAC ADEM Y.C OM
19
