FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Each lesson is 45 minutes total, including:
30 minutes of mounted riding
15 minutes of horsemanship
Horsemanship includes grooming, tacking, horse handling, and understanding horse behavior. We believe great riders are built through a full understanding of the horse—not just time in the saddle.
We specialize in:
Hunt seat riding
Hunter jumper disciplines
General foundational riding
Our program focuses on building a strong foundation first—balance, position, communication, and confidence—before progressing into more advanced skills and jumping.
Riders should wear:
Boots with a small heel (required for safety)
Comfortable, fitted pants (leggings or riding breeches work well)
Please avoid sneakers, sandals, or loose clothing.
No—helmets are available at the barn.
You may:
Bring your own ASTM/SEI-certified helmet, or
Borrow one from us, which is provided in as-is condition
Helmet use is required anytime you are around or on a horse, consistent with our safety policies
We ride year-round and in most weather conditions.
Lessons will continue in rain, cold, or heat
The barn is heated in the winter for comfort
If a lesson ever needs to be canceled due to unsafe conditions, you will be notified directly.
We require at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations.
If less than 24 hours’ notice is given, the full lesson fee will still be charged
Missed lessons without notice are also non-refundable
At this time, we offer private lessons only.
This allows for:
Individualized instruction
Faster skill development
A safer, more focused learning environment
We work with:
Riders starting at age 6 and up
Beginner through advanced levels
Lessons are tailored to each rider’s experience, confidence, and goals.
Our program goes beyond basic riding. Riders develop:
Balance, position, and control in the saddle
Horse care, grooming, and tack knowledge
Safe handling and communication with horses
Confidence, responsibility, and emotional awareness
Progression is skill-based, meaning riders advance as they demonstrate readiness—not based on time alone
Horseback riding is an inherently risky activity, as horses are large and unpredictable animals. However, safety is our top priority.
Riders are taught:
Proper handling techniques
Awareness around horses
Safe riding fundamentals
All participants are required to follow barn rules and safety guidelines
No—lesson horses are provided.
Our horses are carefully selected and matched to riders based on experience, confidence, and goals.
Getting started is simple:
→ Contact us to discuss goals and availability
→ We’ll match you with the right lesson structure
→ Complete registration and required forms
→ Schedule your first lesson
At Nirvana, we focus on developing true horsemen and horsewomen.
That means:
Understanding the horse, not just riding
Building confidence through consistency and skill
Creating a respectful, thoughtful partnership
Riding here is not just a sport—it’s a foundation for personal growth.