Start Your Riding Journey the Right Way
**New Programming for Spring 2026**
A structured program designed to build confidence, safety, and real skill—before you ever get in the saddle.
The First Stride Program is Belle Wood’s foundational pathway for riders aged 16+ who are beginning their equestrian journey.
At Belle Wood, we believe confident riders are built from the ground up. Before entering the saddle, riders develop the skills, awareness, and understanding required to work safely and effectively around horses.
This structured program provides a clear progression from groundwork to riding, ensuring each participant gains confidence, knowledge, and control before advancing.
This program is aligned with:
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Equestrian Canada Learn to Ride Program
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Long-Term Equestrian Development Plan
By following these national frameworks, Belle Wood ensures riders are developed with a focus on safety, confidence, and long-term success in the sport.
Most Popular
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Full groundwork progression
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Structured weekly skill development
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Learn to safely handle and prepare your horse
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Build confidence before entering the saddle
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Introduction to sitting on the horse in Weeks 7–8
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Clear pathway into Belle Wood lesson programs
4 Week Programming
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Hands-on horse handling and safety
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Grooming and basic horse care
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Understanding horse behaviour
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Build confidence working around horses
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Prepare for progression into the full program
8 Week Programming
Structured Start Dates
Riders enroll in a set start date and progress as a cohort.
Consistent Weekly Sessions
Same day each week builds routine and confidence.
Progressive Learning
Each week builds on the last—no drop-ins
Fridays
Start Dates
April 10
April 17
April 24
May 8
May 22
May 29
Riders select one start date and attend that same day each week for the duration of their program.
Sundays
Start Dates
April 12
April 19
April 26
May 3
May 24
May 31
Riders select one start date and attend that same day each week for the duration of their program.
Why We Start on the Ground
We don’t rush riders into the saddle.
By building confidence and understanding on the ground first, riders learn how to safely handle and communicate with the horse before riding begins.
This creates a more confident rider, a safer environment, and a better experience from the very first ride.
"I’ll be honest, I was surprised there was no riding right away—but after going through the program, it completely makes sense. The coaches took the time to build confidence and really teach the ‘why’ behind everything. By the time I got to being on the horse, I wasn’t nervous—I felt prepared. You can tell Belle Wood truly cares about doing this properly, not just rushing people through."
- Connie, Belle Wood Rider