Ground to Saddle
Ground to Saddle offers a hands-on, unmounted introduction to Horsemanship 101 —no experience required. This class is offered in four-week rotations, allowing participants to build their horse knowledge, skills, and confidence from the ground up. Each week builds essential skills, beginning with barn safety, haltering, grooming, feeding, and daily care, then progressing to leading, saddling and bridling, anatomy, and understanding equine behavior and communication.
By the end of the program, participants will have gained fundamental horsemanship skills while developing trust and confidence.
Ground to Saddle is an empowering experience that encourages patience, mindfulness, and partnership between horse and human.
Who is Ground to Saddle for?
Ground to Saddle is ideal for:
Individuals new to horses who want to learn horsemanship skills in a supportive, fun, hands-on environment.
Adults or teens seeking a confidence-building, calming connection with horses.
Riders returning to horses after time away who want to rebuild foundational skills.
Students looking to advance from Beginner to Advanced Beginner/Intermediate lessons
Volunteers, as part of their Bits & Pieces training
Pricing
Four-week session
Fridays 6:00-7:00 pm
$100 4-session package
$35/Drop-in
Friday Evenings
4 weeks
Small groups
Registration for fall sessions is open now
Ground to Saddle is offered as a 4-session course to ensure steady progress for both participants and horses. Each class is designed to build upon the skills and concepts learned in the previous week, creating a rewarding learning experience. Because of this cumulative structure, consistent attendance is essential to receive the full benefit of the program, as well as maintain continuity with your horse. Session spots are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Please RSVP your spot by contacting bitsandpieceschicago@gmail.com
If Bits & Pieces must cancel a lesson, refunds or make-up lessons will be provided at our discretion. This policy helps us maintain the quality, rhythm, and integrity of our program while providing the best possible experience for every participant.
Session Policies
“I wasn’t sure what to expect. Each week, I gained more confidence—not just in handling, but in myself. There’s something incredible about the trust that builds between you and your horse. By the end of the program, I felt calmer, stronger, and more connected than I have in years”
Request Information
Thinking about enrolling? Curious which program might be the right fit? Or maybe you’d like to tour the stables or observe a class in person. Whatever you’re looking for, we’re here to help.