West Michigan Riding Academy
A Clear Path to Growth
West Michigan Riding Academy is the instructional program based at Curtis Performance Horses in Jenison, Michigan. At WMRA we focus on developing riders from the ground up.
Students learn correct fundamentals, horse safety, grooming, and riding skills in a structured environment that emphasizes steady progress. Whether you are brand new to horses or returning after time away, our program provides individualized guidance within a welcoming community.
WMRA offers opportunities to grow as a rider and even compete at local and virtual shows.
Lesson Options
Private Lessons
One-on-one instruction tailored to the rider and horse. Private lessons focus on developing strong fundamentals, improving equitation, and building confidence in the saddle.
Semi-Private Lessons
Two riders share a lesson while receiving individualized coaching. Semi-private lessons allow riders to develop their skills alongside a partner while still receiving focused instruction.
Group Lessons
Group lessons provide a supportive environment for riders to build skills together. These lessons emphasize horsemanship, riding fundamentals, and confidence.
Lesson placement is based on rider level and instruction recommendation. Leasing packages also available!
Contact us for more information.
Riding Academy Show Opportunities
Looking to get started in the show arena? WMRA has opportunities to participate in local community shows as well as our own virtual show program right from our facility in Jenison.
Book a Lesson
Let’s get started. Book a time that works for you with one our WMRA instructors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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We teach riders of all ages! Most students start riding lessons around age 4 and up, but every child is different. For younger horse lovers, we also have opportunities to help them start getting comfortable around horses and learning basic safety before jumping fully into lessons. If you’re not sure whether your child is ready yet, we’re always happy to talk it through with you.
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Our lesson horses are some of the best teachers around. Many of them are retired show horses who now spend their time helping riders learn and grow. They’re experienced, patient, and great at working with riders at all different levels. Each horse plays an important role in helping students build confidence and develop good riding fundamentals.
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Wear weather-appropriate clothes and boots with a small heel if you have them. For your first lesson, any boot with a heel under about 1 inch works just fine. Comfortable pants like leggings or riding tights are also a good choice so you can move easily in the saddle.
Helmets are required for all riders, and we have helmets available at the barn if you don’t have your own yet.
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Since we’re working with horses and spending time outside, we sometimes have to cancel lessons due to extreme weather, like very cold temperatures or excessive heat. If that happens, your instructor will reach out to you directly and help get your lesson rescheduled.
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For most riders, we recommend starting with one lesson per week. Consistency is the best way to build confidence, develop skills, and make steady progress. As riders advance, many choose to add group lessons or additional practice rides to supplement their weekly lesson and continue improving.
Required Forms
