Business Details
42 Years
experience
Expert Horse Training & Lessons in Burbank
J Bennett Farms has been a premier Saddlebred barn in the Greater Los Angeles area since 1984. Founded by Jim Bennett, a lifelong equestrian with over 40 years of training expertise, we specialize in Saddle Seat, Western, and Driving instruction. Located at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, our facility offers access to extensive trails, riding rings, and boarding services. Our mission is to cultivate a supportive community for riders of all levels while maintaining the highest standards of horse care and training. With decades of combined experience, our team prioritizes safety, personalized instruction, and the development of both horse and rider.We provide tailored training programs, specialized care services, and lesson opportunities designed to meet individual needs. Our commitment to excellence extends to boarding facilities, horse leasing options, and competition preparation. By blending traditional horsemanship with modern techniques, we ensure every client receives expert guidance. As a cornerstone of the LA equestrian community, we strive to make world-class training accessible while preserving the heritage of Saddlebred horses.
Services
Saddle Seat Lessons
Western Riding
Driving Instruction
Horse Boarding
Training Programs
Horse Leasing
Competition Prep
Trail Access
Specialized Care
Horse Care Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of Saddlebred training expertise
- Personalized private lessons for all skill levels
- Located at LA's premier equestrian facility
- Comprehensive horse care and boarding programs
- Proven competition preparation success record
What people say
Expert instructors
Well-maintained facilities
Personalized training
Excellent horse care
Great competition prep
Services
Saddle Seat Lessons
Saddle Seat riding emphasizes the horse's elevated trot and requires precise rider control. Our instructors teach proper posture and subtle rein cues to showcase the horse's natural gaits. Lessons focus on developing balance and communication between rider and horse, ideal for those pursuing show competition or classical horsemanship.
Western Riding
Western riding instruction focuses on relaxed, intuitive horsemanship using single-handed rein control. We teach foundational skills for trail riding and ranch work while maintaining the horse's natural movement. Our program develops confidence in both rider and horse through progressive ground work and mounted exercises.
Driving Lessons
Driving instruction teaches horse-and-cart coordination through basic commands to advanced maneuvers. Lessons emphasize safety and communication while developing the horse's strength and responsiveness. Ideal for all ages seeking low-impact equestrian activity or competition preparation.
Horse Boarding
Full-service boarding includes daily stall cleaning, twice-daily feeding, and access to 50+ miles of Griffith Park trails. Our facility offers secure stalls, grazing pastures, and covered arenas. Boarders receive priority access to training programs and facility amenities at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
Training Programs
Customized training programs develop horses six days weekly through varied exercises including long-lining, lunging, and trail work. Our methods focus on muscle development, gait refinement, and behavioral conditioning. Programs include weekly progress assessments and tailored exercise schedules for optimal performance.
People
Jim Bennett
Owner & Trainer
Third-generation equestrian with 40+ years of Saddlebred training experience. Holds Master's in Behavioral Psychology, specializing in equine behavior modification. Founded J Bennett Farms in 1984 to create a premier West Coast Saddlebred training facility while maintaining Kentucky heritage.
Questions
What riding disciplines do you teach?
We specialize in Saddle Seat, Western, and Driving instruction for riders of all levels.
Are group lessons available?
All lessons are private, one-on-one sessions with an instructor.
What safety equipment is required?
Long pants, closed-toe shoes, and equestrian helmets (available on request) are required for all lessons.
Do you offer horse boarding services?
Yes, full-service boarding with daily care and access to facility amenities at LA Equestrian Center.
What is your cancellation policy?
Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours' notice are charged in full.
Can I lease a horse?
We offer half and reserve lease options when available for training and showing.
