About Michelle Van Baalen
An experienced instructor and trainer, ready to fuel your riding passion.
.jpg "IMG-20240228-WA0016 (2)")
Your Instructor
Michelle's journey into the world of equines began at the tender age of 6, progressing from hunter-jumper riding, to Pony Club, 3-day eventing, western riding, packing and cowgirl racing.
As a riding instructor and trainer, she is confident in the quality, temperament and reliability of her horses as she trained or retrained them from race horses to child-safe mounts herself.
Michelle encourages her students to use a soft, less-is-more approach. Students ride bitless, without spurs or crops, learning to employ an “ask, tell, discipline” method for effective communication. You’ll learn how to build a mutual bond with your horse through leadership and not bribery, with the ‘no hand-fed treat’ policy.
Michelle will openly challenge you to build your skills, but will never ask you to do something she isn’t confident you can achieve. She strives to create an environment where her students are comfortable trying new activities.
Michelle is careful to match her students to their mounts, believing that each equine has something valuable to teach you.
"I can’t recommend Michelle enough and given any chance I will always and forever recommend her for your horse needs: whether it be learning to ride, wanting to progress in your riding, your horse's behaviour, your own mental health and needing something new, or anything horse related - Michelle is the one to go to."
Schedule a Barn Meet and Greet
Come by, meet the equines and get a feel for Michelle's teaching style. I can't wait to introduce myself and answer any questions you may have!