Clip Clop | Horseback Riding Lessons & Camps
for Youth in Calgary & Edmonton
587-892-6100
Text or Call Us
Anytime!
clipclop@clipclop.ca
Email Us!
HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS
PARENT INFORMATION
Please read before registering.
Clip Clop is a structured horsemanship program designed to provide a safe, positive, and confidence-building experience for both riders and horses.
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Many families are new to the horse world—and that's why we are here.
We guide riders and parents every step of the way, but we do ask that families take a few moments to review our program expectations before registering.
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Reading this information helps ensure Clip Clop is the right fit and sets your rider up for success.​​
CC LEVEL 10+
is the
program
GOAL
At Clip Clop, achieving Clip Clop Level 10+ is the ultimate goal of the rider, the Clip Clop team, and the parent. And, every rider can achieve this! Let us teach you.
Each phase develops three essential skill sets of levels that collectively lead riders to this milestone.
HORSEMANSHIP
CC Horsemanship Levels 10+
pathways
Most families come to riding lessons because their horse crazy child wants to ride a horse. That’s exactly where Clip Clop begins.
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No Standardized System in Canada
What many parents don’t realize is that in Canada there is no required, standardized system for teaching horseback riding. Any stables can post an ad and hang a sign. Places can vary widely in safety, consistency, and quality.
Parents often have no way of knowing what their child is being taught (or not)—or what they’re working toward. Sadly, many places rely on the fact that non-horse parents don’t know what to look for, making it difficult to tell the difference between real instruction and casual horse access.
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A Standardized System is Created at Clip Clop
Clip Clop was created by licensed coaches, equestrian competitors, educators, and facility owners who saw this gap and invested time and money to build something different: a standardized, curriculum-based, and now trademarked riding program.
Our instructors are trained, supervised, held to a standard, and all teach the same system, follow the same progression, and work toward the same outcomes—so families know exactly what they are paying for.
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We designed our system specifically for urban horse families—clear to understand, fun to follow, focused on real progress, and affordable.
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Riding is central to our program. Riders learn how to ride correctly, progressively, and safely, supported by essential off-horse skills that make riding possible. This complete approach is delivered through the
CC Horsemanship 10+ Pathway, with clear goals, structure, and awards recognition along the way.
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The goal for every rider is to progress through the CC Horsemanship Levels 1-10+ Pathways, where their riding and horsemanship foundation is complete.
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This clarity, consistency, and commitment to real results is why thousands of riders and parents have chosen Clip Clop.
​​​Parents Are Essential Partners
To teach riding well, a professional horseman must master two expert skill sets:
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Teaching riders
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Training and caring for horses
Parents play a vital role in reinforcing these values. Your attitudes and expectations shape how your child treats horses. We help non-horse parents understand the horse’s perspective so they can support their child’s learning journey.
Caring for horses is not static—it’s an ongoing process. Horses teach us constantly, if we’re willing to listen.​
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Age Range
Clip Clop accepts riders ages 5–18.
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Smoking, Vaping and Alcohol
Clip Clop is a smoke/vape-free and alcohol-free environment. This policy is strictly enforced for the safety and well-being of everyone.
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Riding Is Offered Year-Round
Horses require daily care, and Clip Clop offers riding lessons throughout the year. Thanks to our indoor facilities, lessons run in all seasons, and weather-related cancellations are rare. In cases of unsafe road conditions, families are notified and a make-up lesson is provided.
Families may start, pause, and resume lessons at times that work best for them.
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​Roll Over Clip Clop!
Registration, Billing & Intermissions
Ongoing Registration - Monthly lesson registration automatically rolls over unless changed by the parent. Accounts can be managed at any time.
(See Policies Page for details.)
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Intermissions
Riders may pause and resume lessons throughout the year. Riders return at the same level they left off.
Three-Month Recommendation
We strongly recommend committing to at least three months. Consistency is essential for confidence, safety, and skill development. Email clipclop@clipclop.ca before midnight of the last day of the month.
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How Clip Clop “Months” Work
Clip Clop uses customized monthly periods to ensure:
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Equal lesson distribution
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Fair billing
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Consistency across different riding days
Some months include five lessons due to calendar structure. These are reflected clearly in your statement.
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Cold Weather & Alberta Conditions
Alberta’s climate requires riders to learn proper horse care in cold conditions.
During extreme cold:
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Riding may be adjusted based on horse welfare
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Off-horse learning is emphasized
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Riders learn humane winter horse care practices
This is a critical part of horsemanship education.
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​Parents Staying to Watch
Calgary Location – Parent Viewing
We know parents love watching their riders in action, and we love their support!
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At our Calgary location, due to stables being a heritage, boutique riding stables; there isn’t an isolated & designated viewing area during lessons. Entering the arena requires crossing the riding surface and opening doors during an active lesson, which isn’t safe for riders or horses.
For this reason, we ask that parents do not remain on site to watch lessons. This helps our instructors stay focused and keeps the environment calm and safe for the kids.
We are currently exploring the option of a secure camera system (like the daycare cam systems) so parents may be able to watch their riders. Families will be updated if this becomes available.
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Thank you for your understanding and support.
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Edmonton Location – Parent Viewing
Parents are welcome to watch lessons at our Edmonton location from our designated viewing areas. The upstairs lounge is the preferred spot, as it allows you to observe comfortably without distracting riders or horses.
We appreciate parents remaining in these areas so lessons can run smoothly and safely for everyone.
Thank you for being part of the Clip Clop community!
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SWYK- Show What You Know
We understand how important it is for parents to see their rider's progress and show off their skills. That's why we host "Show What You Know" events several times a year where riders can showcase what they have learned to their parents. We can't wait for you to see what your rider has accomplished! These dates will be announced 3 times per year, once during each session.
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​Dressing Like a Rider
Required Equipment & Attire
After registering, parents will receive the full Clip Clop Registration Package outlining all policies and requirements in detail.
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The Dress Code is not optional or allowed to be modified.
As an equestrian program operating under the standards of Equestrian Canada and NCCP, riders are required to be dressed appropriately for the sport. Our insurance provider also requires that riders are properly equipped when mounted.
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These requirements are directly connected to rider safety, recognized sport protocol, and the overall quality of the rider’s experience.
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Please ensure your rider arrives dressed in accordance with the guidelines outlined here and in the detailed Riding Information Package provided to you, which includes store recommendations, photos, and step-by-step instructions.
Arriving properly dressed ensures your rider can participate fully and safely in their lesson.
It's very easy. It's affordable. It's mandatory.
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We provide the horse, saddle, bridle, instructor, and assistant.
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Riding is an athletic activity. Correct attire directly impacts safety, comfort, and skill development.
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Riders who arrive in incorrect or modified clothing will NOT be permitted to mount.
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​Thanks moms and dads for keeping the kids safe.
Required Rider Equipment
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Approved riding helmet (properly fitted)
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Dark, solid riding breeches
OR solid black/navy/gray full-length, tight-to-the-leg yoga pants
3. Proper riding boots with a minimum one-inch heel
4. Ankle boots must be worn with half chaps
5. Tall riding boots are acceptable
6. Weather-appropriate fitted jacket
7. Hair properly secured for safe helmet fit
Not Permitted
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Jogging pants or track pants•
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Loose or baggy clothing
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Pants with prints, stripes, or bright patterns
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Rubber boots, fashion boots, irrigation boots, or running shoes
Improper clothing makes riding significantly more difficult. Loose pants interfere with leg position.
Incorrect footwear compromises safety.
Ankle boots without half chaps cause pinching and instability, making balance nearly impossible.
Arriving properly dressed ensures:
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Safer lessons
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Faster skill development
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Greater rider comfort
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A professional learning environment
We are committed to delivering a high-quality riding program. Proper attire is part of that standard and the information we are responsible to teach.
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Thank you for helping your rider arrive prepared.
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Helmets for Their Heads
Concussion Cure, Brain Buckets, Skid Lids, Brain Bonnet, Head Hardware- whatever you call a safety helmet - they are the MOST important piece of safety equipment your rider requires.
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We take heads and brains seriously.
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Safety is our top priority at Clip Clop and we take head protection very seriously. A properly fitted riding helmet is essential for the comfort and safety of your child while riding. For this reason, we no longer loan or rent helmets for our Riding Lesson Program. We encourage all riders to purchase their own helmets to ensure a proper fit and maximum protection.
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Seasonal Registration Boosts
While Clip Clop operates year-round, we provide seasonal program updates to keep families informed about offerings, achievements, contests, and seasonal changes — and to offer a friendly nudge to riders on a break to hop back in the saddle.
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It does not mean a “season” or “session” has come to an end or a start.
Each season focuses on a different aspect of Horsemanship and we don't want anyone to miss out!
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​The Seasons of Clip Clop
Fall: September to December
Winter: January to March
Spring: April to June
Summer: June to July​
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A Clear Path from
CC Level 1 to CC Level 10+
This pathway shows where riders start, how they progress, how long it typically takes, and what they can do with what they gain at Clip Clop.
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Riders begin at CC Level 1 and may progress through to CC Level 10+. Some ride with us for a great experience, some for many years, and others pursue advanced pathways — and we’ve intentionally mapped all of it out.
For riders who continue on, CC10+ can open doors to leadership and employment roles, advanced horsemanship, and pathways such as Equine Canada and NCCP coaching licensing.
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Reaching CC10+ also provides a strong foundation for whatever comes next: confidently owning and managing horses, working in the equine industry, or pursuing education in Animal Sciences, Veterinary Technology, or Veterinary Medicine.
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And for riders who simply ride for enjoyment, the skills gained along the way build confidence, safety, and lifelong competence around horses — which is exactly what a good foundation should do.
HOW RIDER PROGRESSION WORKS AT CLIP CLOP
THE GOAL: To Achieve Clip Clop CC 10+
The following is a general overview of how riders progress at Clip Clop. While the details of instruction happen behind the scenes, families can expect clear levels, consistent teaching, and steady progress for their rider.
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The Clip Clop Pathways
How Riders Progress to the Winner’s Circle
Clip Clop uses a structured Levels 1–10+ Horsemanship Pathway that mirrors how children naturally develop physical skills, confidence, and responsibility around horses.
Progression is based on skill, decision-making, and consistency—not age, size, or personality.
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The Three Phases of Rider Development
Riders move through three phases, each made up of multiple Levels. Each phase represents a meaningful shift in independence and horsemanship responsibility.
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Pathway Booklet
Each rider receives a Pathway Booklet, stamper, and guided goal-setting support.
Phase 1: Dependent Rider
CC Levels 1–3
CC Level 1
CC Level 2
CC Level 3
(Approx. 80% Dependent / 20% Independent)
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In the Dependent Phase, riders are learning to feel safe, confident, and oriented in the horse environment.
Riders at this phase:
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Rely heavily on the instructor for direction and reassurance
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Need help interpreting what the horse is communicating
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Build basic balance, coordination, and awareness
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Learn foundational safety and care routines
The focus is on security, success, and positive experiences.
👉 Upon successful completion of Levels 1–3, riders attend the Winner’s Circle to celebrate the completion of the Dependent Phase.
Phase 2: Semi-Independent Rider
Jump Smart Program starts here.
CC Levels 4–6
CC Level 4
CC Level 5
CC Level 6
(Approx. 50% Independent / 50% Independent)​
In the Semi-Independent Phase, riders begin taking more ownership of their riding and decisions.
Riders at this phase:
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Apply corrections with less prompting
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Make simple decisions independently
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Demonstrate more stable balance and coordination
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Manage speed, space, and riding patterns with growing confidence
The instructor transitions from being a physical “anchor” to a guide and coach.
👉 Upon successful completion of Levels 4–6, riders attend the Winner’s Circle to recognize their growth in independence.
Phase 3: Independent Rider
CC Levels 7–10+
CC Level 7
CC Level 8
CC Level 9
CC Level 10+
(Approx. 20% Dependent / 80% Independent)
In the Independent Phase, riders demonstrate confident, responsible horsemanship.
Riders at this phase:
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Take responsibility for their effectiveness and safety
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Make adjustments based on the horse’s feedback
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Problem-solve independently
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Ride with quiet confidence and body awareness
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Demonstrate consistent judgment around horses
The instructor’s role is primarily to refine technique and support advancement, not manage the entire ride.
👉 Upon successful completion of this Phase, riders attend the Winner’s Circle, recognizing a major milestone in their horsemanship journey.
Recap of the CC Horsemanship Pathway 1-10+
3 Phases:
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Dependent Phase Pathways = CC Level 1, CC Level 2, CC Level3 (Winner's Circle)
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Semi-Independent Phase Pathways = CC Level 4, CC Level 5, CC Level 6 (Winner's Circle)
At CC Level 4- Riders can join the Jump Smart Program -
Independent Phase Pathways = CC Level 7, CC Level 8, CC Level 9, CC Level 10+ (Winner's Circle)
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Upon successful completion of CC Horsemanship Level 10+, riders who wish to may choose to begin the Equine Canada Rider Level accreditation.
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What Defines a “Level”?
A Level is earned by demonstrating consistent skills across multiple areas of horsemanship—not by completing a checklist once.
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Riders develop skills in the following areas:
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Safety
Acting calmly, responsibly, and with awareness around horses and the facility. -
My Horse
Learning about their horse—name, personality, communication, care needs, and preferences—to build trust and partnership. -
Mounted Horsemanship
Balance, control, and communication while riding. -
Arena Skills
Understanding arena rules, patterns, spacing, and etiquette. -
Horse Husbandry
Daily care tasks that keep horses healthy and comfortable. -
Ground Handling
Leading and communicating with horses safely and confidently from the ground. -
Humanship Skills
Leadership, responsibility, and emotional regulation in horsemanship settings.
How Riders Track Progress
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At the first lesson of each month, riders set goals during Horseplay (off-horse learning time).
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During weekly lessons, riders stamp off skills on their Pathway as they demonstrate them consistently.
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Skills may be revisited as riders mature—this is intentional and part of mastery.
Progress is earned, not rushed.
A Final Note for Parents
This pathway is the backbone of the Clip Clop curriculum.
Every instructional decision is grounded in a rider’s phase, not their age or personality.
Repetition, patience, and steady growth are how confident, capable horse people are developed.
WHERE THIS INFORMATION SHOULD LIVE (THIS IS K
The Winner’s Circle
As riders complete phases of the CC Horsemanship Levels, they celebrate earned PHASE-ups in the Winner’s Circle alongside their parents and riding mates.
These moments recognize progress, effort, and achievement — without pressure or rushing.
Winner’s Circle
recognizing growth
At key points throughout the year, riders are invited into the Winner’s Circle—a moment of recognition that celebrates progress, commitment, and growth along the Levels 1–10+ pathway.
Winner’s Circle is not about competition.
It’s about acknowledging:
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Skills earned
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Confidence built
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Responsibility demonstrated
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Personal growth achieved
Every rider moves forward at their own pace, and progress is recognized when it’s earned.
A Note for Parents
Riders may revisit and practice skills they’ve learned before as they grow physically, emotionally, and cognitively. Repetition is an intentional part of mastery, and returning to skills at higher levels of understanding is how confident, capable horse people are developed.
Youth Leadership Program
The Clip Clop Youth Leadership Program begins at age 11 and gives riders who love horses a meaningful way to deepen their horsemanship while learning responsibility and leadership.
Much like our CC Horsemanship Levels & Pathways, the Leadership Program follows a clear, progressive structure through CC Leadership Levels 1–6, where youth build age-appropriate leadership skills alongside advanced horsemanship education, step by step.
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This highly structured program is carefully supervised by experienced horse professionals and is designed to support youth who assist with the day-to-day delivery of Clip Clop programs in age-appropriate, guided roles.
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Youth start by earning lesson fee credits in the Earn While You Learn fair exchange program, as they learn, grow, and contribute. As they mature and gain experience, many progress into our employment pathway, becoming paid Clip Clop team members who earn income while continuing to build strong horsemanship and leadership skills.
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Programs like this are extremely rare in the equestrian industry, and parents consistently tell us it’s one of the most valuable parts of the Clip Clop experience.
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See the Leadership Program tab in the menu for more information.
Jump Smart Program
A safe, structured introduction to jumping
What Is the Jump Smart Program?
Jump Smart is Clip Clop’s introduction to the fundamentals of
jumping, designed for riders who have developed the balance,
control, and confidence required to safely leave the ground with their horse.
Jumping—defined as all four of the horse’s feet leaving the ground in flight over an obstacle—is considered an intermediate-level riding skill. Even at the most basic level, jumping introduces increased physical and decision-making demands for both rider and horse.
For this reason, all foundational horsemanship and riding skills are taught in CC Levels 1–3, and these skills are fully transferable—and required—for Jump Smart. Riders who choose to jump begin Jump Smart at CC Levels 4–6, where jumping is introduced with clear prerequisites and safety standards.
Who Is Jump Smart For?
Jump Smart is open to riders who have successfully achieved Clip Clop Level 3 and are now CC Level 4 and can consistently demonstrate:
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Independent control of the horse
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Balanced position at walk, trot, and canter in the various seats
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Confidence and focus while riding
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Understanding of basic mounted horsemanship
Admission into Jump Smart is based on readiness, not age and not desire.
Important:
Riders entering CC Level 4 are not required to join Jump Smart.
However, riders must have successfully completed CC Level 3 to be considered.​
Why Jumping Requires Additional Structure
Jumping adds an increased level of risk due to:
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Speed and momentum
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Changes in balance and position
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Timing and decision-making
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Horse and rider coordination in motion
Because of this, Jump Smart focuses first on education, preparation, and consistency, not height or progression speed.
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What Riders Learn in Jump Smart
The Jump Smart Program teaches the fundamentals of jumping, including:
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Pace & Rhythm – maintaining a consistent, balanced canter
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Track & Line – riding accurate lines to and away from jumps
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Speed Control – adjusting stride length without losing balance
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Jump Identification – understanding different types of jumps
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Grid Work – riding gymnastics and grid lines safely
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Counting Strides – learning to count and feel distances
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Position & Balance – maintaining correct jumping position
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Approach & Departure – riding cleanly to and away from obstacles
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Jump Specific Riding Equipment
Instruction emphasizes correct basics and repeatable skills, not rushing advancement.
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Jump Smart Within the CC Levels Pathway
Jump Smart begins at CC Level 4
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At CC Levels 4–6, Jump Smart focuses on:
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Introductory grids
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Basic jumping mechanics
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Confidence and consistency
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At CC Levels 7–10+, riders in Jump Smart are required to ride:
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Two lessons per week
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One flat (non-jumping) lesson
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One jumping lesson
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This structure ensures riders continue to develop balance, control, and horsemanship alongside jumping skills.
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Safety & Equipment Requirements
Due to the added risk of jumping, the following are mandatory for all Jump Smart riders:
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Rider-owned ASTM-approved helmet
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Rider-owned safety vest
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Jump specific riding boots
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Half chaps or tall boots
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Gloves
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Hair secured appropriately for helmet fit
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Shirt tucked in
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Belt
All equipment and turnout standards must be met for every riding session, including flat lessons.
A Final Note for Parents & Riders
Jump Smart is not about jumping higher or faster...yet.
It is about:
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Building correct & safe habits
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Protecting rider and horse welfare
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Ensuring readiness before advancement
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Supporting long-term confidence and safety
Riders progress into—and within—Jump Smart when they are demonstrably ready, not on a timeline.
Emmy & Cody
Saige & Maple
Darby & Allwynds Valherro
CLASS DESCRIPTION
levels & age
Our Approach
Clip Clop uses a clear, structured Levels 1–10 program that develops riding, horse care, and horsemanship skills in a thoughtful, supported way.
Rather than grouping riders strictly by age, we place riders based on readiness, confidence, and experience.
Every child—and every horse—is different, and our approach allows each rider to feel safe, supported, and successful as they progress through the levels at their own pace.
Levels 1, 2, & 3
Ages 5 & Up
Levels 4, 5, & 6
Ages 8 & Up
Levels 7, 8, & 9
Ages 10 & Up
Level 10
Ages 12 & Up
Level 10+
Ages 14 & Up
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Age ranges are simply a guide to help families understand the program. Riders are placed based on comfort, confidence, and skill—not comparison or speed—so every rider can succeed at their own pace.
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Communication & Website Agreement
The Clip Clop website serves as the official agreement between families and Wyld Horses, Inc.
By registering and paying, you agree to:
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The policies and terms outlined on this website
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Ongoing updates and changes as posted
Parents are responsible for staying informed by reviewing the website. Important updates are also shared by email.
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Final Note
We are deeply committed to:
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Horse welfare
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Rider safety
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Clear expectations
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Professional integrity
If our approach aligns with your values, we look forward to welcoming your family.