Why McCord Training?
Safety‑First Instruction Every lesson follows a controlled, step‑by‑step structure using calm, predictable horses. Riders learn in a secure environment designed to build trust and confidence from the very first session.
Clear, Measurable Progression Riders don’t just “go for a ride.” They follow a defined horsemanship path that teaches real skills—handling, groundwork, balance, control, and responsibility—so p
arents can see steady improvement each week.
Beginner‑Friendly Approach No experience needed. Lessons are designed specifically for new riders, kids, teens, and adults who want a supportive, confidence‑building introduction to horses.
Real Horsemanship, Not Just Riding Riders learn how to communicate with their horse, prepare for riding, understand behavior, and develop the foundation needed for long‑term success in the saddle.
Programs
Beginner Riding Lessons (Includes Horsemanship)
A complete introductory riding program for kids, teens, and adults. Lessons include both riding skills and horsemanship: mounting, balance, steering, control, groundwork, horse handling, communication, and understanding behavior. No experience required.
Therapeutic Riding (For Riders With Special Needs)
Adaptive riding sessions designed specifically for individuals with special needs. These lessons support physical, emotional, and cognitive development through structured interaction with horses. Focus areas include core strength, coordination, confidence building, and sensory regulation.
Horsemanship Classes
A balanced program that blends classroom learning, groundwork, and riding. Riders learn safe horse handling, communication, grooming, and behavior awareness, then apply those skills in the saddle. Horsemanship builds confidence, responsibility, and a strong foundation for all future riding.
What to Expect in Your First Lesson
A Warm Welcome & Safety First When you arrive, you’ll meet your instructor and get a quick overview of barn safety. Riders learn how to approach and interact with their horse in a calm, confident way.
Meet Your Horse Riders are introduced to a gentle, predictable horse chosen specifically for beginners. You’ll learn basic communication, brushing, saddling, how to lead, and how to prepare for mounting.
Mounting & Getting Comfortable With patient guidance, riders practice mounting and settling into the saddle. We take time to ensure proper balance, posture, and comfort before moving forward.
Foundational Riding Skills Your first lesson focuses on simple, confidence‑building skills: steering, stopping, balance, and understanding how your horse responds to cues.
A Supportive, Step‑By‑Step Experience Every part of the lesson is paced for beginners. Riders leave feeling proud, capable, and excited for their next session.
Meet the Instructor - Leah Urbanski
Leah Urbanski is the founder and lead instructor of McCord Training. With years of experience teaching riders of all ages and abilities, Leah specializes in creating a safe, confidence‑building environment where beginners thrive. Her instruction blends riding skills with real horsemanship, helping riders understand communication, behavior, groundwork, and responsibility from the very first lesson.
Leah is also a certified therapeutic riding instructor, providing adaptive lessons for individuals with special needs. Her trauma‑informed, relationship‑centered approach ensures every rider receives patient guidance, clear structure, and individualized support.
Whether working with a brand‑new rider or a therapeutic student, Leah’s goal is simple: to help each person grow in confidence, skill, and connection through the power of horses.