Fitness Level Guidelines

• Our lessons are strenuous and physically demanding. Those considering riding should be in good to excellent physical condition and currently participating in vigorous physical activities on a regular basis.  If not, we recommend starting with another activity to gain strength and flexibility before registering for horseback riding lessons.
• Those in Beginner level and above need to be strong and flexible enough to mount the horse unassisted from the ground or small mounting block. This requires lifting your left foot at least 30" off the ground to get it in the stirrup, and pulling yourself up into the saddle.
• We reserve the right to refuse or terminate horseback riding lessons based on weight to height ratio, fitness level and other safety factors. We also may require a brief evaluation ride for placement purposes.   

Weight Guidelines

• For horse husbandry reasons, we have a maximum rider weight of 220 pounds.
• During the course of providing riding lessons for over 30 years, we have found that riders whose weight is not in proportion to their height often have less stable balance and therefore, are more likely to fall off.  Overweight riders without overall fitness and strength are not able to regain their balance if they tip forward or sideways.

Guidelines According to Lesson Level

 Junior Beginner Lessons

• Minimum age:  9 years
• Minimum height:  50”
• Minimum weight: 65 lbs.
• Maximum weight:  Proportionate to height and strength

Beginner Level and above

• Minimum age:  12 years
• Minimum height:  55”
• Minimum weight:  80 lbs.
• Maximum weight:  220 pounds, and proportionate to height and strength