Certified Horsemanship Association

10/14/2026

It's almost time! The 2026 International Conference starts TOMORROW, October 15th!!

Access the program online anytime for:
⭐Full Schedule of Events
⭐Speaker Bios and Session Descriptions
⭐2026 Silent Auction Info
⭐& MORE!

Access the program here:
https://online.fliphtml5.com/hgpkuv/CHA-iCON-2026-Program-Print-FINAL/ =1

10/09/2026

Sign up for the Certified Horsemanship Association Monthly E-Blast to stay up to date on all things CHA!⁠
The CHA Monthly E-Blast keeps you in the loop on upcoming certifications and the latest in equine news!⁠
Visit our website at www.cha.horse or the link below to sign up today!⁠
🌐 https://confirmsubscription.com/h/y/1ADF97EC8D5D3508

10/06/2026

Today is World Teachers' Day, and that includes riding instructors.

A riding instructor stands in the middle of an arena for 4 hours in whatever weather shows up. Some of that time goes to getting a nervous 7-year-old to post the trot. Most of them are paid by the lesson, and a lot of them are also the ones tacking up and putting away.

If somebody taught you to ride, or teaches your kid now, tell them today. Or tag them here.

09/27/2026

DID YOU HEAR!? The new Video Evaluation Program is AVAILABLE NOW!

The CHA Video Evaluation Program allows instructors to submit videos of their teaching skills for review by approved CHA Certifiers. This structured feedback helps candidates assess their readiness, identify strengths, and pinpoint areas for improvement before attending an in-person CHA certification clinic.

“Our goal is to set instructors up for success,” said Tammi Gainer, Executive Director of the Certified Horsemanship Association. “The Video Evaluation Program provides clear, constructive feedback so instructors can confidently prepare for certification and make the most of their experience.”

The program is ideal for:

>Instructors new to CHA certification who want to determine their readiness
>Certified instructors seeking to advance to a higher level
>Professionals returning to certification after time away
>Instructors who want objective feedback in a supportive, educational format

Video evaluations are based on CHA standards and focus on key competencies such as safety awareness, teaching effectiveness, horsemanship skills, and professionalism. Participants receive written feedback aligned with CHA certification expectations, allowing them to prepare intentionally and efficiently.
The Video Evaluation Program reflects CHA’s continued commitment to instructor development, safety, and educational excellence.

For more information about the Video Evaluation Program visit www.cha.horse/store and click on the EVALUATIONS Menu link or call our office at 859-259-3399.

09/24/2026

🐴 Horse Bit Basics: What’s Really in Your Horse’s Mouth?
Not all bits work the same way. The material, thickness, shape, joints, and overall design of a bit can all influence how rein pressure is applied and how the horse responds.
A few things to keep in mind:
- A thinner mouthpiece generally concentrates pressure more than a thicker one.
- Different materials can influence salivation and acceptance of the bit.
- Mouthpiece shape and joints change where and how pressure is distributed.
- A snaffle works through direct pressure, while curb and leverage bits use mechanical advantage to increase and redistribute pressure.

Most importantly, a bit is only one part of communication between horse and rider. Proper fit, the horse’s mouth anatomy, the type of bit, and the rider’s hands all matter.

👇 Take a look at the graphic and then tell us: What is one thing you consider when choosing a bit for your horse?

09/10/2026

Thank you to EC Pro for supporting CHA through a Blue Ribbon Sponsorship in 2026!!
EC Pro is your digital workhorse! They offer a state-of-the-art business management system tailored for equestrian centers and riding schools. Their all-in-one platform handles everything from bookings to horse care to barn and staff management, freeing up your time to be more hands-on with your horses, staff, and customers.
Visit their website to learn more about their powerful features at ECPro.us !

09/04/2026

Have you been keeping up with all things iCON 2026? Here's one last round of speakers that we'll have the pleasure of learning from at Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center October 15-17!

Keep an eye on our website for all of the details on our 2026 International Conference!
www.cha.horse/international-conference

09/01/2026

Have you been waiting for a CHA Instructors of Riders with Disabilities Certification to attend? Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship in Oak Ridge, Missouri is hosting December 2 - 7, 2026. Follow the link below to register:

Instructor of Riders with Disabilities Certification – Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship
From December 2, 2026 to December 7, 2026
Register Now
Instructor of Riders with Disabilities Certification
Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship
$1025.00
192 Hope Hill Rd
Oak Ridge, MO 63769
CHA Corporate Office
(859) 259-3399
225lb weight limit

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