The evaluation lesson is a required first step for all new riders at Cudo Equestrian. It allows our instructors to evaluate each rider’s experience, confidence, physical readiness, and horsemanship knowledge in a safe and structured environment. This ensures every rider is placed correctly and matched with the appropriate horse, lesson format, and learning level.

We teach English, specifically Hunter/Jumper, Eventing and Dressage, with a strong emphasis on:

- Correct fundamentals

- Balanced, effective riding

- Clear communication between horse and rider

Our program is built around developing well-rounded horsemen and horsewomen, not just riders. We focus on understanding how horses think, move, and respond, both in and out of the saddle.

While our foundation is English, the skills taught translate across disciplines and prepare riders for long-term success.

No. The Intro Lesson is for all riders, including:

- Brand new riders

- Riders returning after time away

- Riders transitioning from another barn

- Riders with prior Western or English experience

Every rider benefits from an evaluation so we can ensure consistent teaching standards and safety.

Intro Lessons are 60 minutes long and intentionally structured to allow time for:

- Safety orientation

- Horsemanship fundamentals

- Mounted riding assessment

- Instructor observation and feedback

This allows us to focus on quality instruction rather than rushing through material.

Each lesson is tailored to the rider’s age and experience, but may include:

- Meeting the instructor and assigned lesson horse
- Brief facility tour

- Learning barn safety and handling practices

- Grooming and tacking (age-appropriate)

- Riding exercises focused on balance, position, and control

- Introduction to English riding concepts such as seat, leg, and rein use

Younger riders are guided in a supportive, confidence-building way, while more experienced riders are challenged appropriately.

Yes. All evaluation lessons are private, one-on-one sessions. This allows instructors to:

- Focus fully on the rider

- Provide individualized instruction

- Maintain a calm and safe environment

- Accurately assess readiness for group lessons or Academy placement

Yes. Parents are welcome and encouraged to observe, especially for younger riders. Observing helps families understand our teaching style, safety expectations, and program philosophy.

Riders should arrive wearing:

- Long pants (jeans or riding breeches)

- Boots with a heel (paddock boots)

- A fitted shirt suitable for riding

- Helmets are required and must be ASTM/SEI certified.

Yes. Cudo Equestrian provides:

- Carefully selected, experienced lesson horses

- All necessary tack and riding equipment

- Horses are matched to riders based on size, experience, and temperament.

Riders must be minimum 5 years old meet readiness requirements. Readiness is based on:

- Physical coordination

- Ability to follow instruction

- Emotional comfort around horses

If you’re unsure whether your child is ready, we’re happy to help guide you before booking.

Horseback riding is a sport that involves inherent risk. Safety is a core value at Cudo Equestrian, and we manage risk through:

- Experienced, professional instructors

- Well-trained and suitable lesson horses

- Structured lesson formats

- Clear safety rules and expectations

- Required safety equipment

All riders must complete liability paperwork prior to participation.

After the lesson, our team will:

- Review the instructor’s evaluation

- Recommend the appropriate lesson type (private or group)

- Suggest the best Horse Sense Level and Academy pathway

- Share enrollment options and scheduling availability

There is no pressure to enroll, but most families appreciate receiving a clear recommendation.

We require at least 24 hours’ notice for rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may result in forfeiture of the lesson fee.

Evaluation lessons are booked through our online scheduling system:

1) Select an available time

2) Complete the registration form

3) Submit payment to confirm your lesson

You will receive a confirmation email with arrival details and next steps.