Lisa Wagner is a USDF Certified Instructor through Second Level and has earned her USDF Bronze Medal. She has competed through Prix St Georges and lives in Salisbury, North Carolina, where she trains dressage horses and teaches riders at The Phoenix Farm.
How you got started in dressage?
I got started in dressage when I was thirteen years old. I read Alois Podhajsky’s book, “The Complete Training of Horse and Rider,” and I was hooked!
Why did you want to get certified?
I wanted a well-rounded education in the profession that included a format to help both me and my students.
What surprised you the most about the program?
What I enjoyed learning the most in the certification process was how to become more organized when teaching. I loved how the program teaches the instructor how to identify a specific problem with a horse/rider, how to organize the lesson to address the problem, and to clarify what the outcome of the lesson should be.
What did you learn in the program?
I loved how the program taught the instructor how to identify a specific problem with horse and rider, alter the lesson to address the problem, and to clarify what the outcome of the lesson should be.
Your current horses
I currently have a lovely Friesian/Thoroughbred gelding that I will compete through Third and Fourth Level this year. I also have a stunning Dutch Warmblood/Friesian gelding that I’m excited to start under saddle in the spring.
Tip
If you are trying to succeed in the Instructor/Trainer Program, practice the areas you are weak in. For example, I had not given many group lessons, so I began organizing groups of multiple riders. I was able to gain experience from this and use this knowledge for the future.
Email: phoenix.farm@yahoo.com
Phone: 704-640-7040
