
Designed primarily for younger children who are new to horses or may not yet be ready for a full one-hour lesson, our sessions provide a fantastic way to introduce them to the world of competition riding lessons. Riders will begin learning: Basic horse and barn safety, how to approach and interact with a horse, grooming and introductory horsemanship, balance, steering, stopping, and basic control, all while building confidence around horses. These shorter lessons engage younger riders and offer a positive and age-appropriate introduction to riding, especially for those interested in western riding for beginners. Best for: Younger children and first-time little riders. Discounts available for multiple weekly lessons.
Our western riding lessons are designed for beginner through developing riders who want to become confident and capable horsemen and horsewomen. We offer a comprehensive introduction to western riding for beginners, ensuring each rider builds a solid foundation.
Lessons may include:
- Horse safety, grooming, and tacking
- Proper riding position and balance
- Steering, stopping, and independent control
- Walk and trot development
- Introduction to the lope when the rider is ready
- Trail and arena riding skills
- Groundwork and practical horsemanship
- Personalized goals and continued skill development
Each rider progresses according to their experience, confidence, and ability—not simply the number of lessons completed. Our program is best for children, teenagers, and adults seeking recreational riding, western horsemanship, or even preparation for competition riding lessons.
Don’t forget, we offer discounts for multiple weekly lessons!
Our competition program is designed for committed riders seeking focused instruction in competition riding lessons that cover barrel racing, pole bending, and performance riding.
These lessons may focus on:
- Strong riding and horsemanship foundations
- Rider position, balance, and body control
- Barrel and pole pattern fundamentals
- Rate, control, correct turns, and efficient lines
- Practice plans and goal tracking
- Horse fitness and preparation
- Competition mindset and sportsmanship
- Show preparation and coaching opportunities
Important: Competition riders must own a suitable horse or lease an approved horse through NFS Ranch since lesson horses are not automatically included at this level. Horse leasing opportunities may be available and can be discussed with NFS Ranch.
Best for: Dedicated riders who are preparing to compete or are actively competing in barrel racing and pole bending, and also suitable for those interested in western riding for beginners.
Discounts are available for multiple weekly lessons.
Start → Build → Compete
Younger riders may begin with a 30-minute Little Rider Lesson. Riders can then progress into one-hour Western Riding Lessons for beginners, where they will develop independent riding and horsemanship skills. Dedicated riders may advance into our Competition Program once they have established the necessary foundation and own or lease an approved horse.
Placement in these programs is tailored to each rider’s age, experience, confidence, goals, and readiness.
Not sure where to begin?
First-time riders don’t need to know which program suits them best before reaching out. Just provide us with the rider’s age, experience, and goals, and we will recommend the most suitable starting lesson.
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