Certification Level: Training through First Level
Kenneth Levy, of Noblesville, Indiana (Region 2), has been an active equestrian for over 30 years. He has a background in foxhunting, show hunters, eventing, and dressage. Kenneth owns and operates Legacy Farm Dressage in Noblesville, where they train horses and riders from beginners through the advanced levels. In addition to being a USDF Certified Instructor through First Level, Kenneth is also a USEF “R” judge, and a USEF Silver Level Para-Dressage Coach. He has earned his USDF Bronze and Silver medals, and competed through the Grand Prix level.
Beyond the saddle, Kenneth is an active volunteer within the dressage community, having served as GMO President, Vice President, and chair of the Indiana Dressage Society’s Education Committee. Nationally, Ken served as the USDF Region 2 Director for nine years, and currently sits on the USDF Adult Programs Committee.
How did you get started in dressage?
While eventing, I quickly learned that dressage was the key component to not only doing well in the dressage phase, but also to improving the overall performance of the horse. During a sabbatical from my medical professional career, I served as a working student for a dressage trainer, and became hooked on the sport.
Why did you decide to participate in the USDF Instructor/Trainer Development Program?
Unlike many countries throughout the world, the US does not require a formal license to teach and train horses. Because of this, I experienced some excellent and some not-so-excellent instructors. When I looked into the USDF Instructor/Trainer Development Program, I truly appreciated the holistic approach to teaching and training. By entering – and successfully completing – the program, my skills as an instructor and trainer were significantly improved, thus resulting in happier horses and students.
What do you feel is the most valuable thing you learned from the Instructor/Trainer Development Program?
First, every horse has different needs and does not follow our time schedule in terms of progression.
Second, how to communicate to my students the what, how, and most importantly, the why for what we are learning and teaching our horses.
How have you implemented what you learned in the program into your own teaching and training programs?
I utilize everything from lunging the horse and rider to the information provided on how to best communicate information to students.
Tell us about your horses.
At present, I do not have my own competition horse, but I am actively training and showing a client’s young horse that will be moving up to Third Level in 2025. I also have a number of students who are showing their horses, and I coach them at shows
Do you have any tips for young riders or those interested in participating in the USDF Instructor/Trainer Development Program?
By going through the USDF Instructor/Trainer Development Program, you will learn the classical methods of training from both a didactic and a practical approach. Your horses and students will benefit from your investment in time and effort.
