Welcome to Pony Gang Riding Academy — Columbia, SC
Saddle Up and Schedule Your First Horseback Riding Lesson
At Pony Gang Riding Academy, the magic of horses begins the moment you arrive — and it never ends. We’re proud to offer English horseback riding lessons, Western horseback riding lessons, and our special Tiny Riders lessons for the youngest horse lovers. Whether you’re saddling up for the first time or you’ve been riding for years, we have a program designed just for you.
Our Horseback Riding Lesson Programs
Tiny Riders Lessons (Ages 3–5) in Columbia SC
Our Tiny Riders horseback riding lessons are designed especially for preschoolers, giving them a safe, hands-on introduction to horses. Lessons focus on balance, coordination, and confidence, all while having fun in the saddle.
Junior Riders – Balance & Basics (Ages 6–7) in Columbia, SC
A fun step between pony rides and full lessons, our Junior Riders Program helps kids build balance, communication, and confidence through playful, walk-only riding activities.
Western Horseback Riding Lessons in Columbia, SC
Our Western riding lessons for ages 6 and up focus on balance, communication, and safety. Riders learn the basics of Western riding with an introduction to Ranch Horse skills and Western Dressage, building confidence for both arena work and relaxed rides.
English Horseback Riding Lessons in Columbia, SC
Our English riding lessons - including Dressage and Huntseat and basic Jumper training - help riders 8 and up develop a balanced seat, correct use of aids, and polished equitation. Perfect for those who want to ride with precision and grace.
Why Choose Pony Gang Riding Academy?
We’re located right here in Columbia, SC, offering affordable horseback riding lessons without the need to own your own horse. We welcome riders from age 2.5 to adult in both group and private lessons.
Skills You’ll Learn
- Proper riding position from head to heel
- Correct use of leg, weight, and rein aids
- Balance without relying on stirrups
- Confidence in both English and Western riding
No matter your discipline, we believe equitation and balance are the foundation of great riding.
The Benefits of Horseback Riding
Life Lessons from the Saddle
Riding is more than a sport — it builds character and lifelong skills:
- Accountability & sportsmanship
- Compassion & bravery
- Core strength & coordination
- Problem-solving & confidence
- Relaxation & social connection
Join Us and Ride Today!
If you’re searching for English horseback riding lessons, Western horseback riding lessons, or Tiny Riders lessons in Columbia, SC, Pony Gang Riding Academy is ready to welcome you into our barn family. Come ride with us — where learning is fun and every rider is part of the herd.
What parents have to say about us
"Pony Gang was a great experience for my 12 year old! She learned how to care for horses, not just how to ride. Safety was always top priority and my daughter would gain confidence with each lesson. Grooming and spending time with Sparky (her heart horse) made her very happy. We had to leave Pony Gang due to a new duty station."
Ricki Rhodes
"Great place to learn how to ride and Learn everything you need to know about horses! Great trainers that care. My daughter loves this place. Highly recommend for all ages. They have a great homeschool program as well."
Elena M
What are the Health benefits of riding horses?
Develops core strength
Improves coordination
Encourages trust
Exercises the mind
Develops problem solving skills
Increases socialization
Creates times to relax
Improves mental state
Increases muscle tone and strength
Provides opportunities to compete
OUR TEAM
Our Horseback Riding Lesson Instructors Are The Best Teaching Western Riding Lessons and English Riding Lessons in Hopkins SC
With over 45 years of horse experience, the Pony Gang Team moved their business from Germany to South Carolina and brought 9 of their ponies with them to create Pony Gang Equestrian Services in Hopkins, SC. The team member dedicate their days to caring and working with their horses.
But the highest enjoyment for them is to share their knowledge of horse, the care and correct riding with their students. Lessons are planned to the goals of the riders and they are paired with a horse or pony that matches their riding ability.
Mrs. Stefanie
Mrs. Angi
Mrs. Stefanie
Get In Touch
WE ARE NOT OFFERING ONE TIME RIDES OR TRAIL RIDES!
Please don't contact us or book a assessment lesson if you are only looking for a fun family weekend activity or one time ride. Bookings under false pretense will be automatically cancelled and a refund for payments will be made.
Thank you!!
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If you are looking for "horseback riding lessons near me" don't look any further because you are at the right place for riding western or riding English. We offer it all to you!
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