Rockin’ S Training Program

At Rockin’ S, every horse receives a purposeful 90-day training experience designed to build clarity, confidence, and long-term usability. Horses are worked five days a week, with sessions tailored to their individual needs. Some days call for forty-five minutes of focused refinement. Other days require two hours of steady exposure, miles, or mental resetting. We work with the horse in front of us, not a preset timeline, and that is what creates reliable partners. Our goal is simple. We build safe, willing, versatile horses that owners can take home and enjoy in the arena or out on the trail.

Groundwork: Establishing the Foundation

Every horse begins with a minimum of two weeks of groundwork. This stage is not optional. It is where the foundation for the entire program is set. Good groundwork creates safer horses, cleaner communication, and a clearer mind. We take the time to do it right. During this phase, each horse learns to yield their shoulders and hindquarters, lunge with manners, and respond to light pressure. They become comfortable with ropes, flags, sticks, tarps, noise, and the everyday environment of ranch life. They learn to stand tied patiently, lead with softness, and think instead of reacting. A horse that is confident and respectful on the ground becomes a far more secure and willing partner once you step into the saddle.

Saddle Work and Early Rides

When a horse shows they are mentally ready, we move into the first saddling and early rides. This is done with patience and intention. Our focus is on creating understanding, not fear. Horses are taught softness through the poll, ribs, and hindquarters. They learn one-rein stops, smooth transitions off body cues, and the ability to move freely at the walk, trot, and lope. They begin to understand how to follow their own body through turns and how to stay centered and calm under a rider. The first rides are calm, consistent, and clear. We aim to give every horse a positive experience that becomes the foundation for the rest of their riding career.

Exposure and Real-World Riding

Horses at Rockin’ S learn far more than circles in an arena. They learn how to handle the world with confidence. We have an arena and round pen for structured work, but much of the training happens outside, where a horse learns to think and operate in real conditions. We ride in two different fields, through a grove of trees, over a bridge, and around cattle. Horses learn to cross obstacles, pick their way through uneven terrain, and stay steady in open spaces. We haul to public land, state parks, and the local arena so they gain experience tying, loading, and working in unfamiliar environments. Exposure creates a thinking horse, and a thinking horse becomes a dependable partner.

Developing a Solid, Versatile Riding Horse

As training progresses, each horse begins to develop consistency and refinement. They learn clear transitions, stopping off weight and seat instead of heavy rein pressure, bending through their body, and beginning simple lateral work. With time and repetition, they gain balance, confidence, and the ability to handle pressure without falling apart. Ninety days gives us room to build not only skills, but steadiness, conditioning, and long-term understanding. A horse does not become finished in a month. They become reliable through consistent repetition and clear expectations.

What Sets Rockin’ S Apart

Rockin’ S is built on attention to detail and respect for the small things that make a big difference. Each horse is treated like an individual, not a number. Every day is about improvement, understanding, and making sure the horse leaves better than they arrived. We bring experience in colt starting, problem-solving, tune-ups, and show preparation. While stepping back into the show world, our focus remains rooted in ranch-forward horsemanship. We aim to create horses that are steady-minded, willing, and capable of handling a variety of environments.

Owners can expect honesty, clear communication, steady progress, and a safe, respectable program that prioritizes both the horse’s wellbeing and the owner’s long-term success.

Requirements Before Arrival

Horses must arrive with a current Coggins and up-to-date vaccinations. We ask that each horse has been seen by a farrier within a reasonable window before arrival, and they will continue to receive farrier care from our trusted farrier during their stay. Fly boots are strongly encouraged during summer months. Owners who want their horses blanketed in cool weather may bring a properly fitted blanket. A simple halter and any supplements should also be provided.

Care and Daily Management

Horses at Rockin’ S eat around the clock. We use HayChick nets to allow natural grazing and support healthy digestion. Blanketing is available if provided. We use our own tack for consistency and safety. Horses receive a variety of experiences, from arena work and outdoor riding to navigating obstacles, crossing fields, working around cattle, and hauling to new environments. Each horse is handled with patience and respect while being exposed to the world they need to function in.

Owner Involvement and Communication

We believe trained horses need trained owners. Owners are involved throughout the program with regular weekly updates, photos, and clear notes on progress. If additional communication is needed, we are open and available. Owners are welcome to visit during scheduled times to bond with their horse and see the training process firsthand. Before a horse goes home, owners must complete at least two riding lessons on their horse. This ensures a smooth transition and gives you the skills needed to maintain what your horse has learned.

These lessons protect your investment and set both horse and rider up for success

The 90-Day Process

During the first thirty days, groundwork, first rides, and basic steering take center stage. The next thirty days deepen responsiveness, exposure, and consistency. The final thirty days refine the horse’s understanding, add more miles, and prepare them for the transition back home. Every horse progresses at their own pace, and we always put their mindset and safety first.

Going Home

At the end of the program, you will receive a full walk-through of what your horse knows, how to ask for each cue, and how to keep building on their foundation at home. Follow-up lessons are available for owners who want continued support.

Our Commitment

Rockin’ S is committed to producing safe, confident, well-rounded horses and informed, capable owners. This is a place where horses receive steady guidance, where owners are respected and included, and where the goal is a long-term partnership built on trust.

We want you to feel confident in the care your horse receives and proud of the horse you take home.