Your Horse’s Point of View: How They See the World
Ever wondered how your horse sees the world? From nearly 350° vision to sensitive hearing and touch, horses experience their surroundings in ways we often overlook. Understanding their perspective helps you ride with more trust, confidence, and connection — whether in Petaluma or Santa Rosa.
The Secret Language of the Saddle: Little Details That Make a Big Difference
Your saddle is more than just a seat — it’s a silent coach guiding your balance, comfort, and connection with your horse. Discover the little details that make riding smoother and build confidence from your very first lesson in Petaluma and Santa Rosa.
AUGUST NEWSLETTER
August was packed with milestones at Strides Riding Academy—our new Santa Rosa barn opening, camp memories, Levels Week achievements, and IEA riders gearing up for show season.
Barn Etiquette for First-Time Riders
Starting horseback riding in Petaluma or Santa Rosa? Barn etiquette is the key to feeling confident, safe, and welcome in your new riding home. From keeping aisles clear to greeting horses calmly, these simple do’s and don’ts will help first-time riders build respect for both horses and fellow riders while enjoying a smoother start to their equestrian journey.
Prepare Before You Ride
Getting ready for your first horseback riding lesson? A little preparation goes a long way. From what to wear and bring, to how to connect with your horse, this guide will help new riders in Petaluma and Santa Rosa feel confident, comfortable, and excited before they ride.
Your First Riding Lesson: What to Expect
Thinking about your first horseback riding lesson? Whether you start in our Petaluma arena or our Santa Rosa/Fulton location, here’s exactly what to expect—from meeting your horse to taking your first steps in the saddle.
JULY NEWSLETTER
July at Strides Riding Academy was filled with summer camps, exciting announcements for beginner group lessons, and special community moments. From new riding opportunities in Petaluma to upcoming Santa Rosa spots, this month was all about growth, connection, and celebrating riders’ achievements.
5 Myths About Learning Horse Riding (And What Really Happens in Your First Lesson)
Think horse riding is scary or only for kids? Think again. Discover the truth behind 5 common myths and what really happens in your first lesson at Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma with a new Santa Rosa location coming soon.
What If One Time on a Horse Could Change the Way Your Child Sees Themselves?
Could just one ride make a difference? Intro horseback riding lessons at Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma, CA help kids 5–18 build confidence, courage, and try something new—no experience needed.
Backpacks, Boots & Big Ideas: How to Choose After-School & Horse-Based Youth Programs in Sonoma County
Looking for a powerful, fun, and outdoor-focused after-school program in Sonoma County? Discover how horse-based youth programs like Strides Riding Academy help kids thrive emotionally, physically, and socially.
From Barn to Bravery: After-School Fall Riding Lessons Begin July 31 – No Intro Needed, Just Ride
This fall, swap screens for saddles with Petaluma’s favorite after-school activity. Weekly group lessons start July 31. Limited spots available.
JUNE NEWSLETTER
Get the latest updates from Strides Riding Academy! From summer riding sessions to sneak peeks at our Fall plans, this month’s newsletter has everything you need to stay in the loop.
Solo or Squad? How to Choose the Best Horse Riding Lesson in Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, or Petaluma
Not sure whether to start with a private or group horseback riding lesson? Learn how Strides Riding Academy places new riders and what makes our Santa Rosa and Petaluma programs the best for beginners in Sonoma County.
Horseback Riding in Sonoma County—For People Who’ve Never Touched a Horse
New to horseback riding? This beginner-friendly guide from Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma covers everything you need to know—from what to wear to how we help first-timers feel confident, safe, and welcome in the saddle.
May Newsletter
May was packed with sunshine, shows, and new beginnings at Strides Riding Academy! From welcoming CJ, our newest horse, to launching lessons at our Santa Rosa location, it's been a month to remember. Show season is officially in motion, summer camp is around the corner, and college-bound riders—don’t miss our free Zoom chat on June 3 with College Ready. Catch up on all the latest barn buzz!
The After-Camp Glow: How Our Summer Camps Help Kids Unplug, Connect, and Come Alive
Discover how our horseback riding and ranch camps in Petaluma help kids unplug from screens and reconnect with animals, nature, and their own confidence.
First Hoof Forward: A Parent’s Guide to Starting Horseback Riding Lessons Near Sebastopol
Curious about horseback riding lessons for your child near Sebastopol? Learn what age to start, why intro lessons matter, and how Strides Riding Academy helps families in Santa Rosa and beyond discover the joy of riding.
Tiny Trainers: How Horseback Riding Teaches Kids to Lead with Kindness and Calm
At Strides in Santa Rosa and Petaluma, kids learn more than how to ride—they learn to lead with kindness, calm, and confidence. Join the Tiny Trainers movement.
APRIL NEWSLETTER
Spring is in full swing at Strides Riding Academy! From launching our Beginner Rider Program in Petaluma to opening our new Santa Rosa location, April has been a month of growth, sunshine, and exciting barn updates. Catch up on all the latest news—plus camp countdowns, show dates, and special celebrations!
Meet Your New Happy Place: Horseback Riding Lessons Now in Santa Rosa!
Strides Riding Academy has arrived in Santa Rosa! Discover beginner-friendly horseback riding lessons that build confidence, spark joy, and create unforgettable memories — now just minutes from central Sonoma County.