How do you ask for stable work in return for lessons?

Question

I just started riding at this stable and I really like it there but we can't afford to go there very often. How do I bring up the topic with out sounding to desperate and cheap.

Answer 1

Ask your barn manager/owner for a chance to discuss alternatives to full-priced lessons.  It is important you acknowledge that it is a privilege to ride for reduced or no cost, so make it clear that you intend to work hard and honestly for the opportunity.  

I own and operate a boarding and lesson barn and often barter with my students for reduced cost or free lessons.  I believe an enthusiastic rider is a great addition to the barn.  I generally offer one 45-minute private lesson ($40 value) for 4 hours of barn chores (stall mucking, feeding, cleaning water buckets, etc...)

If you are experienced you may even find an owner that would love to have someone exercise their horse once or twice a week.  Make sure you talk to the barn manager about that as well.

Answer 2

There is never ending work around the barn.  Just ask your instructor.  Sometimes they will say no just as a matter of course.  If you are persistent they will see that you are serious.  Nothing worse than someone saying they will show up and do certain things and then they no show - or loose interest.  Best way is to just start doing a few things extra and see where it goes.

We always need extra help, but we usually wait to see how truly serious people are

good luck

Answer 3

Just be upfront about it. Riding is expensive. You won't sound cheap. And being desperate to ride isn't that bad. There's always work at a stable that no one wants to do. Just offer to shovel with a smile.  

Answer 4

your better off just saying it. people prefer people who are honest. A lot of people are in the same situation as you. its nothing to feel embarrassed about and it doesn't make you sound desperate its makes you sound interested and enthusiastic about horses.

You should have any problem  

Answer 5

You write a letter of barter to the owner. The letter should state your contact information, hours worked at what rate, e.g. 12 hours per week at $8 per hour = 2 lessons a week.

I don't know how much lessons are but stable work is worth at least $8/hour. Figure out how many hours a week you can work that will pay toward how many lessons. Understand that your relationship will be different, more relaxed, than that of a typical customer service stand point.

Answer 6

I'm sure the stable owner has had people approach her about this before. Just ask if there's any work you can do to offset the cost of lessons. Explain to her you can only afford to ride once or twice a month (or whatever you can afford) but you would really like to ride more often. She may or may not have work for you to do, but it never hurts to ask. You won't sound desperate or cheap. Everyone knows that horseback riding is an expensive sport.