FAQs
Lesson Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions about our lesson program.
What kind of clothing and shoes should I wear when taking a lesson?
You should wear comfortable, non-binding clothing. Jeans or long pants must be worn. Boots with a small heel (approximately 1") should be worn. Tennis shoes are NOT good for riding. A helmet must be worn by children and is encouraged for all adults. If you don't own a certified riding helmet, we will provide one for you.
Will I get to pick what horse I want to ride at each lesson?
Our #1 criteria for choosing a horse for you to ride is your level of experience and your safety. It is in your best interest to have our trained staff decide which lesson horse is best for the skill you'll be learning during that lesson. It is also best for you to "try" as many different horses as possible so you can experience different kinds of "rides".
What is tack and do you provide it?
"Tack" refers to the equipment necessary to ride the horse such as saddle, pad, and bridle. We provide all necessary tack for your lessons.
Are classes cancelled due to poor weather?
Punkin Acre Paints provides our lessons in an indoor arena. We hold lessons inside this arena even when the weather outside is not favorable. If, for some reason, we need to cancel lessons, we will attempt to contact you. Use your best judgement in extreme weather such as blizzards and tornado conditions.
How long is a private lesson?
Private lessons are 1/2 hour in length.
How long is a group lesson?
Group lessons are an hour in length.
How much actual riding time do I get with each lesson?
We believe in teaching total horsemanship at Punkin Acre Paints. Therefore, each student is required to groom his/her horse and saddle the horse before each lesson. We will assist you in this process, but it's important that each student learns this procedure. Total riding time depends on how quickly you get your assigned horse ready. Most students will ride for 45-50 minutes in a group lesson.
How many students are in a group lesson?
Groups may be from 2-6 students in size. The size depends on availability and the student's level of experience.
How much do lessons cost?
We prefer to discuss pricing individually and therefore don't publish our prices on our website. Please contact us by phone or email to discuss pricing.
Can I stop by and observe a lesson?
YES! Please call to make sure that we have a lesson scheduled for the time that you'll be there. We encourage you to see our facility and ask questions.
What will I be learning in my lessons?
In the beginning, we will teach you the basics of good horsemanship. This begins with how to groom, saddle, and prepare to ride your horse. We will teach you the basic cues to walk and stop your horse. As you advance, you'll learn to trot and lope (or canter) your horse. We can also tailor the lessons to fit your specific needs.
How often do I schedule lessons?
We prefer for you to have one lesson per week. This allows you to retain what you've previously learned and keep up with the rest of your group. However, we are flexible with your schedule and can make arrangements accordingly.
How do I cancel a lesson?
If you are scheduled for a lesson and can't attend, please call to cancel. Our home and barn phone numbers are listed on the home page. Leave a message if necessary.
Below are some commonly asked questions about our lesson program.
What kind of clothing and shoes should I wear when taking a lesson?
You should wear comfortable, non-binding clothing. Jeans or long pants must be worn. Boots with a small heel (approximately 1") should be worn. Tennis shoes are NOT good for riding. A helmet must be worn by children and is encouraged for all adults. If you don't own a certified riding helmet, we will provide one for you.
Will I get to pick what horse I want to ride at each lesson?
Our #1 criteria for choosing a horse for you to ride is your level of experience and your safety. It is in your best interest to have our trained staff decide which lesson horse is best for the skill you'll be learning during that lesson. It is also best for you to "try" as many different horses as possible so you can experience different kinds of "rides".
What is tack and do you provide it?
"Tack" refers to the equipment necessary to ride the horse such as saddle, pad, and bridle. We provide all necessary tack for your lessons.
Are classes cancelled due to poor weather?
Punkin Acre Paints provides our lessons in an indoor arena. We hold lessons inside this arena even when the weather outside is not favorable. If, for some reason, we need to cancel lessons, we will attempt to contact you. Use your best judgement in extreme weather such as blizzards and tornado conditions.
How long is a private lesson?
Private lessons are 1/2 hour in length.
How long is a group lesson?
Group lessons are an hour in length.
How much actual riding time do I get with each lesson?
We believe in teaching total horsemanship at Punkin Acre Paints. Therefore, each student is required to groom his/her horse and saddle the horse before each lesson. We will assist you in this process, but it's important that each student learns this procedure. Total riding time depends on how quickly you get your assigned horse ready. Most students will ride for 45-50 minutes in a group lesson.
How many students are in a group lesson?
Groups may be from 2-6 students in size. The size depends on availability and the student's level of experience.
How much do lessons cost?
We prefer to discuss pricing individually and therefore don't publish our prices on our website. Please contact us by phone or email to discuss pricing.
Can I stop by and observe a lesson?
YES! Please call to make sure that we have a lesson scheduled for the time that you'll be there. We encourage you to see our facility and ask questions.
What will I be learning in my lessons?
In the beginning, we will teach you the basics of good horsemanship. This begins with how to groom, saddle, and prepare to ride your horse. We will teach you the basic cues to walk and stop your horse. As you advance, you'll learn to trot and lope (or canter) your horse. We can also tailor the lessons to fit your specific needs.
How often do I schedule lessons?
We prefer for you to have one lesson per week. This allows you to retain what you've previously learned and keep up with the rest of your group. However, we are flexible with your schedule and can make arrangements accordingly.
How do I cancel a lesson?
If you are scheduled for a lesson and can't attend, please call to cancel. Our home and barn phone numbers are listed on the home page. Leave a message if necessary.
