FAQs

Frequently asked questions:

LHRA Resources & Links
At this time, LionHeart Riding Academy is only accepting new riders who are able to commit to a regular weekly lesson. Please call Kate 573-823-2173 to register or to discuss wait list options.

What age riders do you accept?
LionHeart Riding Academy accepts riders ages 5 and up. Kate uses a double teaching saddle to give tandem lessons to our youngest beginners. Occasionally, riders less than 5 years old are ready for the physical and mental challenge of riding lessons. Please inquire.

Can you teach adults to ride?
Absolutely! Many adults find that an afternoon at the barn can be a relaxing, enjoyable experience and that saddleseat riding is an excellent workout. (Please note that at this time, we do not have a lesson horse available to accomodate a rider weighing over 200 pounds.)

How much are lessons?
A private lesson is $30 for 30 minutes of riding time; package prices are available on request. On occasion, group lessons are offered by invitation only. CancellationPolicy2010.pdf

How often should a rider take lessons?
The more often you ride, the faster you will progress. A minimum of one lesson per week will keep a student moving forward, but our best students ride as often as five times per week. We offer camps and clinics, through which a rider can achieve new goals in a short amount of time.

Where are you located?
LionHeart Riding Academy is located just west of the 63/163 intersection in Columbia, Missouri. Our high quality program attracts riders from the surrounding mid-Missouri as well as riders who commute from St. Louis. In the summertime, riders join us from as far away as Florida for camps and clinics.

What about safety?
Horses are large, strong, herd animals. There is inherent risk in riding them and even being near them. Safety topics are an essential and ongoing component of our lesson program.

What does a rider wear for a first lesson?
Jeans or other long pants and shoes or boots with a heel are required. Sneakers are not permitted due to safety reasons. LHRA has boots to loan for your first lesson. Cowboy-style boots are OK for a first lesson, but continuing riders will need to purchase jodphur boots. Please talk with Kate about specific requirements before making any purchases. Helmets are required and provided for all Cub Club riders. Advanced riders and adults may sign a waiver.

What does a rider need for the lesson program?
Ongoing students will need to purchase Kentucky jodphurs and paddock boots for riding. You can purchase your own helmet or use one of ours. Some riders also choose to wear gloves. Riding clothes fit differently than street clothes. Please talk with Kate before making a purchase.

Do I have to stay for my child’s lesson?
Yes, a parent or guardian is required to stay on site until “drop offs” are approved by Kate.

How much does showing cost?
The cost of showing varies by location and by LHRA participation, as barn expenses are split among riders. Please discuss showing costs with Kate. We work hard to keep show expenses affordable.

Is showing required?
No, showing is not required but it is highly recommended.

What does a rider need to show?
Academy show clothes include dark Kentucky jods, paddock boots, a fitted vest, long sleeved shirt and tie, a helmet, and gloves. LHRA has a “trainer’s closet” with some academy show clothes available for lease to beginning riders. Show riders wear a tailored suit and derby. Proper show attire is essential so please discuss with Kate before purchasing.

Do you offer summer camps?
Yes! Summer camp is an excellent opportunity to set and achieve goals in a short amount of time. Summer 2011 information will be posted soon. For intermediate riders and above who are interested in theater, a combination equitation/drama camp is in the works. Finesse your riding skills; finesse your audition technique -- all in one week!

Do you offer equitation clinics?
Yes! Equitation is Kate’s specialty (see About Kate section). Private, advanced clinics can be arranged for individuals or small groups. Be ready for an intense and challenging work out.

What are your lesson horses like?
Our horses are American Saddlebreds -- and one National Show Horse. We have a variety of well-schooled horses to suit the abilities of all riders from beginning to advanced riders.

What style of riding do you teach?
We are a saddleseat barn. Riders learn to walk, trot and canter on an English-style saddle using a double-reined bridle. There is no jumping involved.

More questions? Please contact Kate -- she’d be happy to chat with you!
Kate.Younker@googlemail.com or 573-823-2173