Several programs are offered at Red Hat Cowgirl to meet the varied needs of our amazing clients. We can tailor a program that suits you and your family depending on what your goals are.

 Lessons

Students can ride once per week or more depending on availability. On a weekly basis students are learning the fundamentals of handling, grooming, tacking and riding horses. Everyone starts with learning to be safe and aware of the horse’s body language. We progress to riding at the walk, learning full control with our natural aides—the voice, seat, hands and legs. This starts the beginning of a solid rider with a good seat and leg as well as a soft hand.

We then progress to the jog, a slow trot, applying everything we’ve already learned at the walk. Students then learn to ride the posting trot and become aware of the proper diagonal. We also focus on using our legs and upper body for control and riding small circles. Mastery of this opens so many doors to the rider when they grasp this concept and can apply it. This is truly the foundation of all riding.

As riders are learning these processes we incorporate patterns, games and obstacles to keep it interesting for both the horse and rider. It changes the riders focus and the riding has an opportunity to become more natural and relaxed. Plus it’s fun to mix it up!

From here we can progress to the canter, hand-gallop, jumping, more difficult pattern and course work, horse training and more.

Horse shows and gymkhanas

Competition is a fun way to showcase what’s been learned throughout the year. It also provides an opportunity to set learning and riding goals. Competition is valuable for learning good sportsmanship, time management, attention to detail, memorizing patterns, using the mind’s eye to prepare for their ride, exercising self control, etc.

Trail rides

Trail riding also offered for full time students. This is a fun way to enjoy our area and explore. Trail riding can give the horse a chance to relax and teach the rider how to manage the varied terrain, share with other trail users such as bicycles and hikers and handle unpredictable situations. We often pack snacks and drinks for a fun afternoon riding and enjoying the camaraderie. Again, all of the riding in the arena prepares the student for this fun activity.

Horse Knowledge Study programs

Study programs are another aspect of learning about horses. We often gather together to learn, challenge and test ourselves on our horse knowledge. Horse and equipment care, knowing the names of all the parts of the horse, colors and other markings, the different styles of riding, breeds of horses and ponies is just the beginning. We never stop learning and we encourage everyone to always be open to learn and try something new.

Camps

Camps have been a super fun way to spend a day together! Here we present our riding and study programs in a condensed way. We often play games, have contests, reverse roles so the students learn to teach, watch movies, and break bread. It’s a treat to hear the laughter and witness the joy as we horse around.

Field trips

Visiting other horse facilities is one of the ways we expose our students to all the horse world has to offer as well as teach a giving attitude. We’ve toured our local equine hospital, volunteered at a donkey and Clydesdale farm, learned how to play polo, gone camping for the weekend, participated in clinics and demonstrations, and even created goody bags to give to the homeless in the area.