Rider Training Scale Explained: How EquiKinder Builds Confident Young Riders

In this episode of the EquiKinder Audio Journal, I explore how we teach beginner riding lessons using the Rider’s Training Scale – a step-by-step framework that prioritizes connection, balance, feel, and horsemanship.

You’ll hear how this scale helps young riders grow into confident, relaxed, and aware horse people, while supporting the wellbeing of our horses. Whether you’re a parent, instructor, or horse lover, this episode offers practical insight into foundational riding education for kids.

In This Episode:

• What the Rider’s Training Scale is and how it’s different from the horse’s training scale
• Why connection and awareness come before riding technique
• How I support kids in developing balance, relaxation, and an independent seat
• The role of co-regulation between horse and rider
• Why “feel” can’t be taught… but will grow over time
• How we use this scale practically in weekly lessons

Want to dive deeper?

Read the full blog post on EquiKinder’s Training Scale for a written overview of this approach and how it shapes our beginner riding program.

“My job isn’t just to teach kids how to ride. Every lesson is an invitation to grow — not just in skill, but to become more grounded, more attuned, and more connected to another living being and yourself.”

FAQ: What is the Rider’s Training Scale?

The Rider’s Training Scale is a structured framework developed by the German Equestrian Federation (Deutsche Reiterliche Vereinigung, FN) to guide a rider’s progressive development in balance, coordination, feel, and communication. Similar to the well-known Horse Training Scale, which focuses on the horse’s development, the rider’s scale emphasizes the human component of the partnership.

At EquiKinder, our adaptation of this scale includes the following core stages:

1. Connection & Horsemanship – Developing trust, awareness, and communication with the horse on the ground.
2. Balance & Relaxation – Learning to move with the horse’s rhythm without tension or gripping.
3. Adaptation to Movement – Following the horse’s motion fluidly through each gait and transition.
4. Aids & Communication – Introducing clear, gentle cues that the horse can understand.
5. Coordinated Aids & Feel – Combining cues smoothly and developing intuitive timing and feel.

This scale helps instructors tailor lessons to each rider’s stage, creating a safe, responsive, and confidence-building learning experience especially for children and beginner riders.

Explore More:

Visit the Blog to dive deeper, or head to the Free Resources page for worksheets, checklists, and tools to support young riders and their grown-ups.