Trick Riding – Beginner Intensive Course
21–22 July 2026 | Ranch Kuulas, Finnish Lapland
Staying in the saddle is already a skill.
But what happens when you add acrobatic movement, speed, balance, and a touch of stunt-rider courage?
Trick riding is a discipline that breaks the boundaries of traditional riding and opens a completely new way of moving with a horse. This summer, you have the opportunity to experience this rare and exciting discipline at Ranch Kuulas, in the peaceful nature of Finnish Lapland.
This two-day intensive beginner course is led by professional stunt performer and elite horse athlete Anni Jauhiainen.
What is Trick Riding?
Trick riding has roots hundreds of years old, originating with Cossack warriors who developed acrobatic movements on horseback for survival in battle. Later, the discipline evolved into circus performances, rodeo shows, and Hollywood films, where stunt riders perform breathtaking tricks on moving horses.
Today, trick riding is a powerful way to develop:
- balance and body control
- confidence and courage
- a deeper understanding of movement with the horse
No previous riding experience is required.
An open mind and curiosity are all you need, safety and progression always come first.
Instructor – Professional Stunt Performer
This course is taught by Anni Jauhiainen, who has extensive experience working as a stunt rider in film productions, live shows, and demonstrations. She is also one of Finland’s most successful horseback archers and widely respected for her exceptional control, precision, and calm approach to training.
Under Ann’s guidance:
- exercises are adapted to each participant’s level
- technique, control, and safety are prioritised
- you progress at your own pace, without pressure
At Ranch Kuulas, both horse welfare and rider safety are always at the heart of everything we do.
Itinerary
Morning Session
- Training with a trick riding dummy horse
- Balance, mobility, and movement technique
- Learning safely from the ground before moving to the horse
Lunch (included)
- Warm lunch served at Ranch Kuulas
Afternoon Session
- Trick riding exercises on a real horse (walk)
- Movements adapted individually to skill level
- Calm, supportive coaching in a small group
For overnight camp you have also dinner and breakfast. And if you wish, you can add midnight sun ride over the hill for extra cost.
What’s Included
All course options include:
- Professional instruction by a stunt performer
- Lunch on both course days
- Dinner evening for overnight stays
- Breakfast on morning for overnight stays
- Use of trained, well-balanced horses
- Small group teaching in a peaceful Lapland setting
Accommodation
Riding holiday guests stay in our traditional log-built loft accommodation (luhtiaitta), offering cozy 1–2 person rooms. The rooms are simple yet carefully finished, warm and atmospheric.
- Shared WC and shower facilities
- Views over the stable yard and possibility to spot northern lights from late August to April
- A peaceful setting surrounded by nature
Restaurant Loimu
Meals are included in the holiday price and served at our own log-built restaurant Loimu. The holiday includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is fully licensed (drinks are not included in the price).
