Lessons:
NEWS FLASH:
Fox Ridge Farm is proud to now offer discounted lessons to the moms of the children that ride here ~ Mommy lessons are only $25.
Dying to ride off into the sunset ~ Come learn how, the safe & fun way.
Think you can't ~ We know you can!
We specialize in teaching children, beginners, & nervous adults.
Come on out and see what you've been missing.
Fly around barrels, soar over jumps, or just take a leisurely ride.
At Fox Ridge Farm we will help you to reach your goals while building your confidence & giving you the time of your life.
It's easy to fall in love with our lesson horses.
Look, Parcy gets kisses & hugs!
General Information:
When beginning your search for riding lessons, it's helpful to make a complete and honest assessment of your strengths, weaknesses, and goals as a rider. Which riding skills do you feel comfortable and competent with? Which riding skills do you feel yourself lacking? Do you aspire to ride capably on trial rides, the local show circuit, jumping competitions, or do you just want to be able to ride for pleasure safely?
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.
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 and gentle temperaments as well as their abilities and talent make learning easy and fun!
We are extremely proud of our wonderful lesson horses & ponies:
Mojo, Smokey, Jingles, Sugar, Prince, Bunny, & Krunch. To learn more about our horses, please click on the "Sales & Leases" page above.
We teach & compete in western too.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can take riding lessons?
Anyone age 6 and up may take riding lessons. Riders under 6 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 1/2 hour or 1 hour sessions. Group lessons are either 45 minutes for 2 riders or 60 minutes for 3-5 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 age and 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 through phone or email.
What days and times do the lessons run?
We currently offer lessons on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Weekday typically lessons start around 4:00p.m. and run through the evening hours. Saturday lessons start early in the morning and go to about noon time.
It is possible to schedule lessons on other days occasionally~call or email for availability.
What is the cost of lessons?
Private lessons:
$35 for 30 minutes or $70 for 1 hour
Group lessons:
$35 for 1 hour (3-5 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 or checks made out to: Fox Ridge Farm. 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 hours 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?
No contracts are 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.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, all students are required to wear an ASTM/SEI certified helmet. We will lend helmets to new riders for a short period of time. Riders who are here regularly must own their own helmets.
What should I wear to my lesson?
Riders must wear hard soled boots with a small heel. Soles with deep tread on the bottom, like work boots are not permitted. Long pants must be worn~riding pants/breeches are preferred. Close-fitting clothing is ideal because it aids in determining the rider's position.
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 recommend. Both should be applied before arriving at the farm. On cooler days bringing along a jacket and gloves is a good idea.
Billie & Jingles
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. No parking close to the barn entrance.
Supervision of children is the responsibility of their parent. Running & screaming is NEVER allowed.
Dogs are NEVER permitted, even if leashed.
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: info@foxridgefarm.net or call the farm at (973)-764-2445.
We're always happy to help.
Mazyka, beloved teacher & friend
March 20, 1986 - March 23, 2006