First Stride: An Introduction to Horses
Beginner Adult Equine Crash Course (16+)
Calling all adult beginners! Did you wish for a pony every birthday? Dream of riding horses? Did life get in the way of your equestrian aspirations?
Do we have the program for YOU!
Introducing our First Stride program for riders aged 16+ with NO horse experience!
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 on the ground!
This structured program provides a clear progression from groundwork to riding, ensuring each participant gains confidence, knowledge, and control before advancing.
This program comes in a 4 Week & 8 Week option and runs on Fridays & Sundays evenings.
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.
Four-Week & Eight-Week Options
4 Week Program Starts With:
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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 with horses
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Prepare for progression into the full program
8 Week Program Continues With:
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Full groundwork progression
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Structured weekly skill development
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Understanding tack & equipment
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Learn to safely handle and prepare your horse
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Introduction to sitting on the horse in Weeks 7–8
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Clear pathway into Belle Wood lesson program
2026 Spring Dates
Riders select one start date and attend that same day each week for the duration of their program.
Friday Start Dates
April 10
April 17
April 24
May 8
May 22
May 29
Sunday Start Dates
April 12
April 19
April 26
May 3
May 24
May 31
Learn Equipment
Gain Confidence
Practice horse handling