Western Riding Lessons
Riding lessons are customized for each rider/horse combination and the rider’s individual goals. Our riding program is open to all breeds of horses. We specialize in adult riders of all western skill levels. At Barnes Ranch, we want you and your horse to learn in a relaxed, supportive, positive environment.
For entry level riders and those who have been away from horses for awhile, the rider can choose from two learning approaches. The first approach is to take a riding evaluation lesson. A written checklist can be provided or you can receive the information verbally. The completed evaluation can form a “customized lesson plan” for your skill building and improvement.
The second approach uses the CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) riding program. The CHA lesson format provides information and skills in a sequential manner within four skill levels. This learning approach is beneficial to riders who want a foundation on which to build increasing skills. A 4-level manual is available. When the rider shows a proficiency of each skill that comprises a level, the rider receives a certificate of completion.
Gerrie Barnes is a certified CHA Level 4 Instructor.
For entry-level riders, lessons begin with an understanding of how to safely control the horse from the ground, how to groom and tack the horse correctly, how to mount and dismount, seat position, use of natural aids (voice, balance, legs, hands) and quality use of cues for the walk and trot, turns and stops.
Once the rider can perform these basic skills, we move on to “Active Riding” which involves partnering with your horse physically and mentally. Your style of riding strives to match the movements of your horse.
Your horse has a part in the partnership and process. His job is to learn the “Foundation Maneuvers” required to improve his attention, movement, and control of separate body parts. . . which results in better performance and a more willing partner.
For riders with confidence or fear issues, Gerrie holds an MA in Counseling and can assist you in regaining your confidence and overcoming your fears. Her process involves an understanding of your personal experiences, establishing goals within your comfort zone and safely helping you meet those goals.
All riders have the choice of bringing his/her own horse or using a school horse for a limited time at no extra cost. Sometimes it is helpful to ride a school horse and be able to concentrate on the rider's skills. Then, the rider can introduce the new skill(s) to his/her horse in a more confident, competent manner.
We provide instruction and coaching for event-specific skills:
Fees
Private lessons are encouraged to allow complete focus on the rider and horse. Semi-private and small group lessons are available.
- Private Lessons (with or without a school horse) = $50 per hour
- Semiprivate and Small Group Lessons = number of riders split the
$50 hourly rate - Lessons including cattle= additional $25 cattle fee per hour
"Your rider evaluation was really wonderful. I was able to begin putting several of your suggestions to practice immediately. The written evaluation form was absolutely essential since there is so much to remember." Mary Simon
"Gerrie is a wonderful instructor with excellent communication skills. She explains everything in a logical, step-wise manner that is easy to understand, with a strong emphasis on safety and empathy for the horse. She is very effective with both novice and experienced riders. Most of all her warm and friendly manner makes her a delight!" Sandy Blackstone
"No matter the level of rider or discipline being taught, Gerrie's enthusiasm and patience with both rider and horse makes learning a joy! I have personally taken lessons from Gerrie, participated in clinics and ridden in 'practice sessions'. Her emphasis on safety, correctness and fun immediately put my nerves to rest when I was learning new skills on a horse I had just recently purchased." Cara Tseng
