Shelti Farms Riding Lesson Levels Program
Our structured lesson program is designed to help riders progress at their own pace while building confidence, skill, and horsemanship. Each level has specific goals and milestones to ensure a well-rounded equestrian education.
Level 1: Beginner – Foundations & Safety
For riders with little to no experience
Focus Areas:
• Proper mounting/dismounting
• Basic horse handling and safety
• Learning to steer and stop (walk)
• Developing balance and correct posture
• Grooming and tacking up basics
• Understanding horse behavior and communication
Goal to Move Up: Confidently control the horse at a walk and demonstrate safe handling on the ground.
Level 2: Novice – Building Confidence
For riders comfortable at the walk, beginning to trot
Focus Areas:
• Refining steering and control
• Introduction to trotting (posting & sitting)
• Learning to trot over ground poles
• Developing independent seat and hands
• Basic patterns and transitions
• Understanding horse care and basic first aid
Goal to Move Up: Maintain control at the walk and trot, demonstrate good balance, and perform simple patterns.
Level 3: Intermediate – Strength & Coordination
For riders comfortable at walk and trot, beginning canter work
Focus Areas:
• Improving rhythm, balance, and control at trot
• Introduction to cantering (on the correct lead)
• Refining transitions between gaits
• Two-point position and introduction to small jumps
• Lateral work (leg yields, bending)
• Understanding horse nutrition and fitness
Goal to Move Up: Confidently trot over poles and small jumps, maintain steady canter, and execute smooth transitions.
Level 4: Advanced – Precision & Performance
For riders confident at walk, trot, and canter, working towards more advanced skills
Focus Areas:
• Jumping courses and gridwork
• Refining lateral movements (shoulder-in, haunches-in)
• Sitting the canter and lengthening/shortening strides
• Advanced horsemanship and groundwork
• Riding different types of horses
• Show preparation and goal-setting
Goal to Move Up: Complete a small course with control and confidence, demonstrate advanced flatwork skills.