

The Iron Orchid Riding Academy
Classes begin July 25th 2026
This is not your regular riding program...IOA is a riding club specializing in force-free horsemanship, classical riding and horse archery. Our program is built on the principles of ethical horse care, classical riding fundamentals, dedication and self-discipline. Class sizes are small and students are assessed regularly for growth. We welcome riders and trainers from all over the globe for a culturally diverse approach to the ancient art of horsemanship. Kids attend classes every Saturday and Adult classes are held every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month.
Spaces are Limited- Apply Now!

Accessible and Progressive
The riding club meets every weekend time depending on rider level. Kids can begin at the age of 8, and adults can begin at any age or experience level. Classes are billed on a monthly basis, with family discounts available. Our goal is to keep riding affordable for the average person, and keep horses in the communities. Similar to martial arts, every student will enter as a beginner and progress according to their knowledge and effort with a clear system to track their learning through the levels.

Diverse
We also offer elective classes in various forms of farm management skills, horse care, riding, archery and martial arts training to supplement students' learning endeavors. These are highly encouraged, as they keep riders mentally and physically active. These electives also take place on Saturdays, with the exception of our mounted archery club taking place the last Sunday of each month.

A place for Growth
Beginner classes are small (2-3 people) to foster each students' growth and understanding of the elements of riding. Once a student progresses to intermediate, they will ride in a larger group of up to 10 students. Students will learn about horse care and responsibilities, farm life, riding principles and self-discipline in a positive and uplifting environment. Students will be able to test their skills and advance according to their development, therefore regular attendance is important!
bASE CLASSES
* Levels are designated by bands that are worn by the riders.
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White - Foundations I : Basic position at the sitting walk and trot. Level I Grooming and Tacking the horse.
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Yellow - Foundations II : The Posting trot and rhythm. Level II Grooming and Tack knowledge.
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Orange - Foundations III : Introduction to the canter. Introduction to groundwork. Level III Grooming and Tack Maintenance
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Green - Intermediate I : Riding in a group. Ground work on the lunge and round pen. Advanced Grooming and intro to protective riding gear.
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Purple - Intermediate II : Riding lateral movements and intro to pole work. Level 1 Horse Care.
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Blue - Intermediate III : Intro to jumping and dressage. Advanced Ground work and horse behavior.
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Maroon - Advanced I : Jumping a course. Schooling of the riding horse. Advanced Riding in a team.
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Brown - Intro to ethical training practices. Intro to equine psychology
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Black - Advanced Horsemanship Practices. Training of the riding horse.
* After achieving a Black band, Riders continue to progress through tiers of advanced horsemanship training and practices, and are eligible for invitation to teach other students.
Elective CLASSES
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Introduction to Archery on the ground
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Introduction to Archery on the horse
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Liberty Horsemanship
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Japanese Swordsmanship
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Tai Chi
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Qigong
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Mounted Swordsmanship
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Mounted Archery
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Force-Free Horsetraining principles
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Force-Free Horse training application
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Qi-Questrian - The energy of horsemanship
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Kyudo
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Aikido
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Biomechanics of the Horse and Rider
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Historical Riding and the War Horse
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Japanese Bajutsu (the art of the horse)
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Horse Care and Ownership
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Basic Vet Care
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Intro to Farm Management
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Caring for farm animals
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Modern Horse Management
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Intro to Equine Competitions - before during and after the event
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The Drill Team
* Students who progress through the levels of the base classes and elective courses receive certifications of completion and a opportunities to assist instructors upon invitation.
