Lessons:
FOR CURRENT STUDENTS:
Have a friend interested in riding?
Treat them to a free introductory lesson!
Gift certificates can be purchased in any amount & make great stocking stuffers!
We specialize in teaching children, beginners, & nervous adults.
Come on out & see what you've been missing!
We teach both English & western riding all year round in our indoor & outdoor arenas.
Fly around barrels, soar over jumps, or just take a leisurely ride.
Whatever your goal may be, we'll help you reach it safely, while you have a GREAT time!
It's easy to fall in love with our lesson horses.
Look, Parcy gets kisses & hugs!
General Information:
Frequency of lessons is very important~especially for beginner riders. New students, particularly if young, tend to benefit more from 2 or more weekly lessons. Riding properly requires both learning the skills and developing the physical strength necessary to perform those skills effectively. Progressive learning can only take place when students have lessons frequently enough so as not to forget what they have already been taught.
At Fox Ridge Farm, we specialize in personalized riding instruction for children and adults. We ride all year long, no matter the weather, in our indoor and outdoor arenas.
We teach both English (hunt seat equitation & jumping) and western (equitation & pleasure). Emphasis is on creating a fun and harmonious relationship between horse and rider ~ whether your goals are in the competitive field or in pleasure riding.
Learning to jump
About Our Horses:
All of our well-trained lesson horses are also seasoned competitors. They have the ability to give riders a good understanding of both English & western riding. Their kind & gentle temperaments as well as their abilities & talent make learning easy & fun!
We are extremely proud of our wonderful lesson horses & ponies! To learn more about them, please check out the "Horses for Lease" page.
We teach western too!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can take riding lessons?
Ages 5 and up may take riding lessons. Riders under 5 will be accepted on a case by case basis. Adult students are always welcome. There is a 200 lb. weight limit for riders.
How long is each lesson?
Private lessons are offered in half hour or 1-hour sessions. Group lessons are either 45 minutes for 2 riders or 1 hour for 3-6 riders.
Can beginner riders join in group lessons?
For safety reasons we require that all new riders start out in private lessons. Once a rider exhibits careful & kind use of their aids & good control of their horse, they are encouraged to join a group. Riders are matched into groups according to skill.
How is scheduling of lessons done?
Our riders have regular time slots that they ride each week. This not only keeps things simple but ensures consistent, progressive learning can take place. Riders may also schedule on an impromptu basis if unable to commit to being on a regular schedule.
Scheduling is done by phone: (973)-764-2445
or email: foxridgefarmllc@aol.com
Make up lessons are available if a rider has another commitment on their regular lesson day.
What days and times do the lessons run?
We offer lessons 7 days a week. Weekday & Sunday lessons start around 4:00 p.m. and run through the evening hours. Saturday lessons run early morning and run though noon time.
Please call or email to check availability for any particular day.
What is the cost of lessons?
Private lessons:
$35 for 30 minutes or $70 for 1 hour
Group lessons:
$35 for 1 hour (3-6 riders)
$35 for 45 minutes (2 riders)
How does paying for lessons work?
Payment is due at the time of the lesson. We accept cash and personal checks. We also accept credit card payments through PayPal. If paying through PayPal, payment must be made prior to the lesson. PayPal payments incur a 5% surcharge to cover fees that PayPal charges us for using their service~(a $35. lesson would be $36.75 if paying through PayPal). Returned checks are subject to a $25 charge.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made by calling the farm. Cancellations sent via email are NOT accepted. We require 24 hours advance notice of all cancellations. If less then 24 hourse notice is given, you are financially responsible for that lesson.
Can I observe a lesson before deciding to take one?
Absolutely, potential students and/or their parents are free to view a lesson. Please call the farm at (973)-764-2445 to set up a time.
Do I have to sign a contract or commit to numerous lessons?
Contracts are never required for lessons at Fox Ridge Farm. You may pay as you go, never having to commit to a specific amount of lessons.
Do I have to own my own horse?
No, we have the most wonderful, safe, and well-trained horses here for you to ride. However, if you would like to ride your own horse and don't board here, prearranged trailer-ins are welcome. We require proof of current vaccinations & a negative coggins prior to your horse arriving.
What should I wear to my lesson?
Riders must wear a helmet (we provide helmets for those who don't own one), a pair of hard-soled boots with a small heel (no boots with deep tread like work boots or hiking boots), and long pants (jeans, sweatpants, leggings are all ok). Gloves are optional, but recommended. Long hair must be tied back in a low pony tail or tucked up inside the helmet.
Riding gear can be expensive, but we have many affordable sources. If you need help finding riding clothes just ask; we are happy to help you find the best deals! The following is the "ideal" riding wear, however, the items mentioned above work just fine too!
For the English rider:
Footwear: paddock boots or tall field boots
Pants: breeches or jodphurs
For the western rider:
Footwear: cowboy boots or ropers
Pants: comfortable, well-fitting jeans
Should I bring anything to my lesson?
Always bring something to drink. Staying hydrated will help you stay focused and prevent over-heating. When the weather is warm, bug spray and sunscreen is recommended. Both should be applied before arriving at the farm. On cooler days bringing along a jacket. Gloves made specifically for riding are always a good idea.
Testimonials:
I can't overstate how very very much we've appreciated the total experience you've provided Lillian over the past year. For starters, it was clear when I started calling around to stables a year ago that most places were not even interested in a young, physically small, beginning student. In contrast, from the first phone call with you, I felt you would enjoy the unique challenges of teaching someone her age and size. You've met and exceeded my expectations. Not only does she have a good foundation of skills, but you've helped her succeed at one of the first really big things she determined all on her own she wanted to try. You're a patient teacher, but don't give empty praise, rather helping her rise to the standard. Consequently, she's had a taste of the rewards of achievement through hard work, thereby you've strengthened her overall confidence and self-image for other things. You (and Lily, and Scarlett, and Joe) made her and us feel totally welcome: in lessons, hanging around the stables (for Lillian, just BASKING in the warm glow of real horses!), and at the PAL classes. Jennifer and I appreciate the holistic approach you teach ALL about enjoying horses, not just the riding. And you made it easy for us to sort out a schedule when other stables would have been inflexible. I can't say enough good things. Thank you very much, P.E.
Things To Know Before Visiting:
There are often children & animals in the driveway; please drive slowly & carefully. Parking is only permitted in the parking lot. You may park by the main barn only if the lot is full.
Supervision of children is the responsibility of their parent. Running & screaming is NEVER allowed.
Dogs are not permitted on the farm for the safety of humans & horses.
Please be quiet around the rings when lessons are being taught. Cell phones & chatting are distracting to riders that are here to learn.
Keep in mind that there is 1 instructor. Onlookers are not permitted to coach during lessons.
The above guidelines have been put in place to keep things running smoothly & safely. We appreciate your cooperation & understanding.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email us: foxridgefarmllc@aol.com or call the farm at (973)-764-2445.
We're Always Happy To Help!