Equine Instruction - Frequently Asked Questions

What type(s) of instruction do you teach?
- We offer a variety of discipline options such as showmanship, English (dressage/jumping/endurance) Western (pleasure/horsemanship/dressage) Trail Riding Safety, Gaming, Obstacles, desensitizing, ground handling and more.

What are some intangible benefits of Horse Lessons?
- Leadership skills, work ethic, stable life (being outside in nature) self-motivation, confidence, self-esteem and awareness. Mental, physical, and emotional fitness may also be some benefits from being around the wonderful world of horses.

What is Your Age-Range for Lessons?
- We will start motivated and interested toddlers as early as 2-3 years old. If you are mentally, physically, and emotionally able, have been riding regularly, we do not place an upper limit on your age.

Do I need to stay with my child during the lesson?
- As long as we have your phone number, you do not need to stay with your child. However, you are welcome to stay if you would like.

How do I know what type of lesson to book?
- We require everyone starts with private lessons until your instructor gives you “the green light” for groups. Your instructor will also recommend which group is most suitable for you.

Do I need my own horse?
- We provide lesson horses and ponies for your education. However, if you have a horse and can bring it; you and your horse can learn at the same time. If you do bring your own horse, we recommend a 90-minute to 2-hr session (current vaccination record and Coggins test are required for all horses entering the premises).

When should I buy a Horse?
- Buying a horse is a significant investment. This is not something we recommend at the beginning of your equine adventures. Please allow Benvelle Equestrian Center to introduce you to horse handling, care, feeding, management, grooming tools, tack & equipment, horse types and personality match, safe riding procedures, vet & farrier, transportation, and a basic yearly horse ownership budget before purchasing. When the time is right, we will be happy to help you shop for your equine partner.

How much are lessons?
- We have boarder and non-boarder rates as well as private and group rates ranging from $35-$55 per hour.

What forms of payment do you accept?
- We accept cash or check at the time of your lesson. We also accept credit card payments through our scheduling software.

Do reoccurring lesson packages?
- Yes, we provide 10-hr packages as a discounted rate.

When will weather impact horse lessons?
- The weather in central MN does vary, so here are some guidelines:
  - Rain: light rain ok, no lessons during thunderstorms
  - Temperature: No lessons below 8’ or above 85’
  - Weather Advisory/Roads: Text your instructor directly

How long are the lessons?
- Lessons may be scheduled for 60, 90 or 120 minutes (hourly rates apply).

What should I wear for the lesson?
- Long, non-slippery pants (jeans or other riding pants).
- Boots with at least ¼” heel when riding.
- You may also want to bring mud-boots in Spring/Fall, Winter Boots for that season when we are outside bringing horse to and from pasture.
- Gloves are better than mittens for dexterity.
- No dangling scarves/jewelry, no bulky shirts/jackets.
- We also recommend riding helmets.

Do I need my own helmet?
- We can provide helmets. We can teach you about proper fit and the style that would be best suited to you.
- Once you start riding on a regular basis, you will want your own helmet.

What else should I bring?
- A notebook or phone to take notes.
- A water bottle may be helpful (especially in warm weather).