Lommedalen Training is one of the few training and boarding facilities in the Lancaster and Lebanon area whose staff trains both gaited and non-gaited breeds. They provide riding lessons for riders from beginners to advanced in western and gaited horse disciplines. The Lommedalen lesson program is designed to teach horsemanship skills and riding skills together. Students learn all aspects of horse care while they also develop riding skills. The goal is to produce riders with a rounded knowledge of horses and horse care as well as good riding practices.
Jo Ann Trostle, the head instructor and trainer, has taught riding lessons for twelve years and works with riders of all ages and experience levels. Her ability to help riders connect with their horses is second to none. She uses a mix of natural horsemanship and dressage principles to help riders better understand their horses and themselves to make a working partnership. Jo Ann specializes in gaited breeds, and competes with Icelandic and Rocky Mountain horses. She also enjoys working with western horses, focusing on ranch skills.
Laurie McGowan of Hershey, PA testifies to Lommedalen’s program with her older Icelandic mare, “I truly appreciate Jo Ann’s conscientious training regimen when bringing my horse back from a tendon injury. She is thoroughly professional and reliable and works with both the horse and rider to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.”
In addition, Lommedalen Training offers clinics and workshops for gaited horses throughout the year with a schedule of events posted regularly on their Facebook page. They encourage an atmosphere of equality and friendship in and outside of the show ring and strive to make riders of all ages feel welcome. For more information or to schedule a visit, call (717) 669-9439 or email Jo Ann directly at lommedalentraining@gmail.com.