Starting a Horse Under the Saddle
Small-scale, calm and purposeful: attention to every detail in your horse’s training
With us, starting a young horse is never “just breaking in.”
Every horse receives personal attention, a peaceful environment, and a rhythm that allows confidence to grow naturally.
We combine daily movement (7 days a week), tailored nutrition and varied training, so your horse not only learns, but also becomes mentally and physically stronger.
Here your horse discovers joy in the work — at its own pace, in a way that feels natural and safe.
Calmness, Consistency & Care
Your horse’s well-being always comes first.
In a safe, relaxed environment, your horse can go outside all day, seven days a week, and train five days a week in a natural, pressure-free way.
There is variety and challenge, but always with attention to comfort and peace of mind.
We provide a consistent rhythm of movement, feeding and turnout in the same paddock or trusted field for structure and safety.
This way your horse can learn in relaxation, enjoy its surroundings and build confidence with every step.
The Foundation
We start at the core: trust.
Through calm groundwork, lunging and gentle desensitisation, your horse learns that new things are not scary and that it is safe with its handler.
This sense of safety opens the door to everything that comes next.
Only when your horse feels relaxed can it truly enjoy learning and developing.
The First Steps Under The Saddle
Once your horse feels confident and responds well, we begin the mounting process.
We repeat mounting and dismounting until your horse remains relaxed and self-assured.
Then we continue with walking and trotting under the rider in the round pen.
Thanks to this careful, quiet beginning, most horses quickly discover the joy of real work under saddle.
As they become stronger and more balanced, we move the training to the arena to continue their development.
Going Home
Your horse only goes home once you (or your regular rider) have ridden several times yourself.
During these sessions we provide personal guidance and practical tips so you can both continue safely and confidently.
Your horse understands the work, and you feel secure and ready to enjoy every ride.
How long does my horse stay?
We recommend a period of 3 months for a calm, careful and complete education.
- In the first two months, we build the foundation: relaxation, trust in the work, strength and suppleness.
- The third month offers room for refinement — either for horses who need more time to release tension, or for those ready to take the next step.
Every phase is tailored to your horse.
Together we decide what works best, so the training is natural, enjoyable and suitable.
✔ What’s Included
Stabling & Daily Care
- Tailored feeding
- Turnout from sunrise to sunset
- With water & forage outside
- Private paddock/field or turnout with one of our own horses (depending on season and weather)
Desensitisation Training
Gentle exposure to sounds, objects and situations to build confidence and inner calm.
Introducing saddle, girth, bit (initially under the halter), all in a slow, confidence-building way.
Much of this is first done in-hand, often with one of our experienced, steady horses as a role model.
Later we repeat the same exercises under saddle.
Lunging Training
- Teaching voice commands
- Double-line lunging for the first basics
- Later: developing strength in the topline & hindquarters
- Correct biomechanics, building power and relaxation
Training Under Saddle
- Mounting & sitting
- Forward thinking & confidence
- Steering / halt / go
- Walk, trot, canter
- Transitions, balance & straightness
Multiple Riders
Your horse is ridden by several riders so it learns different seats, aids and feel.
Every 2 Months: Sand (Manure) Testing
Regular Photo & Video Updates
(And of course, you’re always welcome to watch sessions in person.)
❌ Not Included
– Farrier
– Veterinary costs
– Worm testing / vaccinations / dental care
– Specialists (osteopath, saddle fitter, dentist)
All can be scheduled in consultation if needed.
Buddy System
Sometimes we help a horse by pairing it with a calm, experienced buddy.
This principle comes from the western and trail world, where horses learn simply by being together.
A relaxed, confident horse shows its partner that nothing is scary.
Horses naturally mirror each other, making a nervous horse more likely to relax and trust.
The buddy supports not only at the beginning, but also later when new challenges arise.
This creates a safe, natural learning environment where your horse becomes stronger, calmer and more confident — fully in its own time.
Experiences
The team at Stoeterij Ruijs restored my confidence
This winter the team started my 6-year-old Friesian under saddle, who hadn’t been trained yet due to circumstances.
After 3.5 years, I’m riding my own horse again!
The team gave me confidence in both my horse and myself.
The exercises are clearly explained and well thought through.
We’re still making progress every week!
The team at Stoeterij Ruijs brings confidence and joy
I brought my horse to Stoeterij Ruijs to be started under saddle.
In the meantime I took lessons on the stoeterij horses myself, which made me more confident and skilled.
Seeing my own horse’s development at the same time was incredibly special.
Eventually I continued the lessons on my own horse — with trust and joy.
The team guides both horse and rider with warmth and patience.
Stoeterij Ruijs takes care of both horse and rider
Before leaving for my world trip, I placed my mare at Stoeterij Ruijs to be started under saddle.
When I returned, I could get on and ride away without any difficulty.
She looked amazing: shiny coat, strong muscles, relaxed expression.
The atmosphere is calm and positive — a place where both horses and riders feel safe and confident.
Prices (Including Stabling & Training)
Pony (C, D, E): €650 per month
Horse: €700 per month
Prices exclude 21% VAT
