Willow Wood Farms

We first do an evaluation less to discuss the students goals and see where they're at. What happens after that depends entirely on the rider.  It's honestly a little different for everyone. We aren't a plug and play, overly commercialized program. We only do private lessons and each lesson is geared towards moving that student toward their goal. For some that may be jumping 4 feet, while for others it's simply learning to safely ride the walk, trot, and canter. 

I have spent my life training horses and teaching students. I have successfully competed on the A jumping circuit and have competed in ridden dressage through 4th level. I've trained under several former olympians. 

My lessons are booked in 1 hour increments for $50/hour. Students are expected to be tacked up and ready to mount at the appointed time so they can get the full hour of instruction. 

When I was only thirteen my 4H advisor pushed me into teaching lessons to and prepping less experienced 4Hers to get them ready to compete at the county or state fair. After just a few lessons I knew I'd found something I absolutely love doing. 

I work with students from 5 up to 85 with a variety of skills. Some students are absolute beginners. Others are riders looking to improve their dressage scores or are looking to get into a new discipline. 

All my students start riding English. If they wish to ride western I'm happy to accommodate that after they've learned the basics. I've found this is the best way I can setup my students for success. 

I recently had a student come to me who had a rotational fall on the cross country course. She would stand at the mounting block and cry because her fear was so overwhelming she couldn't even get on a horse. After a few weeks I was able to get her to sit on the horse and then walk with me along side. After several lessons I managed to get her to trot with me jogging along side. A few lessons after that she was riding and jumping again. She's scheduled to compete for the first time since her injury in just a few weeks. I am unspeakably proud of how much progress she has made and the fact that she's back to doing what she loves. 

Students should sit down and figure out some goals before looking for a trainer. While I can and do teach the basics it's good if the students have an idea of something they want to learn  

I tell anyone coming in that the first few lessons are a feeling out period for us to make sure we can work together effectively. Not every trainer is a good fit for every student. 

It is best for students to have a goal for their riding. While I can evaluate what elements they need to develop to be effective riders it's always best to have something to work towards.