Traditional Equitation School

Our History . . . Traditional Equitation School was established in 1979 at Bell Canyon Equestrian Center in Canoga Park, California, by Patricia Kinnaman and the late Lilian Van Dahn. TES moved to the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in 1986. During the past decade we have become one of the largest riding schools in the country. Our comprehensive curriculum includes a variety of equestrian sports and instruction tailored to all ages and levels of ability. 

Our Philosophy . . . TES is a professional riding school with a foundation in the art of classical riding (dressage) as taught in the European riding academies. The various styles of riding offered for study all have a common goal--the horse should be ridden forward, straight and with ease. The rider should function in such a way as to make this possible. Good horsemanship requires a balanced combination of discipline, physical coordination, quick reflexes, sharp mental skills, patience and compassion for the welfare of the horse. In order to achieve this, sound training techniques, safety and good riding basics are the foundation for all of our riding classes. We want our students to achieve their riding goals, whether they are simply safe and enjoyable pleasure riding, competition or horse ownership.