The Equine Canada Learn to Ride program was developed for individuals who wish to learn safe horsemanship and practices. The purpose of this program is to produce safe and knowledgeable horseman and to assist in the development of future instructors and coaches.
The Rider Level 1-10 program is a national program with national standards that rewards all riders, recreational to competitive, for advancing their learning with Certificates of Achievement and badges. This program provides riders and coaches with an attainable progression throughout the rider level framework. In addition, encourages all riders to ride, learn and enjoy the sport of riding while providing guidelines to coaches and instructors.
Riders enrolled in lessons at Equus 3D Equestrian Centre are encouraged to participate in this beneficial program. For more information please contact us.
Rider Level 1
Riders at Level 1 should be in the beginning stages of their Equestrian development. At the Rider Level 1, riders acquire the basics of riding and demonstrate of:
- good position,
- knowledge of "aids" and
- emphasize "safe" habits
Rider Level 2
Riders at Level 2 will develop their skills and knowledge acquired during Rider Level 1. At this level the rider will become more independent in both their riding and in their stable management skills.
Rider Level 3
Riders at Level 3 will develop stability, control and will now demonstrate the ability to ride independently.
Riders at Level 3 are now expected to ride an individual flat test and complete a cross-rail jumping course.
Rider Level 4
At this level, riders are starting to co-ordinate the use of the independent aids i.e. leg being used to support hand contact. The Riders must be able to recognize an incorrect lead within a few steps and correct it without delay. The riders at this level must demonstrate knowledge of arena rules as required.
Riders are expected to complete a flat test and ride jumps at a height of 2' (0.6m).
Rider Level 5
Riders at Level 5 should have a solid awareness of a horse and an ability to maintain rhythm and relaxation. At this level non-progressive transitions are introduced. Examples of non-progressive transitions included walk to canter and halt to trot.
Riders at this level will be jumping fences at a height of 2'3" (0.7m) in addition to a flat test.
Rider Level 6
Riders at Level 6 will demonstrate the ability to ride forward from leg to hand. They will be able to ride the horse forward with impulsion (energy) while maintaining rhythm, regularity and evenness of pace.
Riders at Level 6 will complete a flat test and jump fences at a height of 2'6" (0.8m).
Rider Level 7
Riders at Level 7 ride with consistent contact supported by the leg maintaining rhythm, suppleness contact and impulsion. The Rider at Level 7 is now aware of lateral and longitudinal suppleness and appropriate suppling exercises. They can lengthen and shorten stride at trot.
Riders at Level 7 will complete a flat test and jump fences at a height of 2'9" (0.88m).
Rider Level 8
Riders at Level 8 are competent rider with sound equitation skills. The Rider 8 is able to recognize "true" quality of movement. The Rider 8 is beginning to ride the horse with impulsion and engagement. They can achieve consistent bend and straightness as required. The Rider Level 8 is able to identify basic training problems and offer options for their correction.
Over fences, the Rider 8 will complete a flat test and jump a medal type courses of 2'9" (0.88m) - 3' (0.91m). The Rider Level 8 will be able to influence the horse in a positive fashion and improve his way of going.
Rider Level 9 & 10
Rider Level 9 & 10 are presently not available be are currently under development for inclusion. At the present time it is anticipated that Rider Level 9 will represent a standard similar to the Stable Management and Riding requirements presently in place for Equine Canada NCCP English Coach 1 and Rider Level 10 similarly the Equine Canada NCCP English Coach 2.
