Aimee's Training Philosophy:

The truly unique thing about riding and working with horses is  that it’s a partnership. There is a give and take, and you have to learn how to balance the relationship for both partners to succeed. Too much influence on either side (i.e. too strong a rider/ a horse that doesn't listen) takes away from the other. A good balance produces a team that is actually better than the separate parts. I try to help students find that balance, to understand how they can improve the horse, and what they can learn from the horse. Every time they ride, it’s an opportunity to develop a relationship.

Handling a horse can be intimidating, and rightly so. My lessons include instruction on handling horses in all aspects - from the stall to the show-ring. I address problems people might have with their own horse, and stress safety for the rider/handler at all times.

After ground work, grooming and tacking up, students will learn a "balanced seat" and work on their strength and coordination, in addition to challenging their horse to perform interesting and sometime strenuous work! I use the Certified Horsemanship Association’s manual to guide riders through 4 levels of horsemanship, on their way to independent, confident riding.

If a student so desires, they can compete in horse shows, once they are at the appropriate skill level. Horse shows can be a fun and challenging way to gauge the rider’s skills as they develop. I encourage my students to watch other lessons and horse shows, to get an idea of the possibilities for their future! I welcome questions anytime, and want to be sure that each answer I give really helps the student get where they want to go. I really am here for them, and I try to make the experience as enriching as possible.