Who private lessons are for
A private lesson means the instructor's attention stays on one rider for the whole session. That makes private lessons a strong fit for:
- Nervous or cautious riders, including kids and adults who feel more comfortable without an audience.
- Riders with a specific problem to solve, such as a horse that rushes, drops a shoulder in turns or won't stand still at the mounting block.
- Competitors fine-tuning a barrel or pole pattern, where small details in position and timing make the difference.
- Horse owners who want help with their own horse's training and responsiveness.
- Riders with irregular schedules who find it easier to coordinate a time for one person.
What you can work on
Anything BHP teaches can be taught privately. That includes beginner riding fundamentals, Western riding and horsemanship, barrel racing, pole bending and rodeo and competition preparation.
The difference is pace and focus. In a private lesson, April can stop and repeat an exercise as many times as it takes, change plans when something isn't working, and spend twenty minutes on a single turn if that's what the rider needs. Feedback is immediate and specific to you and your horse.
How private lessons help you progress
Because there's no one else to wait for, riders often get more repetitions in a private lesson. Mistakes are caught early, before they become habits. That fits BHP's approach of correct first, consistent second, speed comes after: the one-on-one format makes it easier to get the details right before moving on.
Can beginners take private lessons?
Yes, and many do. A private first lesson can take pressure off a brand-new rider. There's no comparing yourself with anyone, and the instructor can adjust instantly if you're uneasy or ready for more.
Can I use a BHP lesson horse?
Yes. Private lessons can be taken on one of BHP's beginner-friendly lesson horses, which is how most new riders start.
Can I bring my own horse?
Yes. Private lessons are often the best format for working with your own horse, because the whole session can target that horse's habits and your partnership. Tell us about the horse, its training and what you'd like to change when you send your request.
Private or group: which should you choose?
Private lessons trade the social atmosphere of a group for focus. If you'd enjoy riding with friends or siblings, group riding lessons may suit you better, and some riders mix both. Our article on private vs. group horse riding lessons walks through the pros and cons honestly.
How to request a private lesson
- Open the private lesson request form. "Private" is already selected.
- Pick the type of lesson you're interested in, your experience level and whether you'll use a BHP horse or your own.
- Add your preferred days and times and anything you'd like to work on.
April follows up by phone or email with availability, location and current pricing. Private lessons are held at the BHP property in Roy or at a local arena when appropriate, and riders come from Yelm, Graham, Spanaway, Eatonville, Puyallup and Tacoma.