CM Performance Horses – Training Program Expectations & Policies

At CM Performance Horses, we are committed to providing a structured, high-quality training experience that prioritizes each horse’s well-being, development, and performance. To ensure clear communication and successful partnerships, the following expectations apply to both trainer and client.

 

Trainer Expectations
 

To maintain the highest standard of training and education, the following commitments are upheld:

Professional Development & Continuing Education

• Attend at least one riding clinic per year to refine skills and stay up to date with industry advancements.

  • Past clinics attended include: Jane Melby, Will Kennedy, Ashley Schaefer, Joy Wargo, Phil Haugen, and Trula Churchill (2023).

• Engage in ongoing education through books, digital clinics, and instructional videos throughout the year.

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Training & Horse Care

• Client horses will be ridden at least 5 times per week for a minimum of 30 minutes per session.

• Weekly video updates will be provided to clients, with additional updates as needed.

• Horses receive high-quality nutrition and care, including:

  • Cleveringa Equine Feed with Zesterra, ensuring proper nutrition, gut health, and stress reduction.

  • High-quality grass/alfalfa mix hay included in the training rate.

About Our Feed Program
 

Cleveringa Equine Feed

A high-quality, complete feed starting with premium alfalfa, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is formulated with reduced sugars and starches, making it suitable for sensitive horses. Locally made by a family-run business in Doon, Iowa, with a consistent formula for reliability.

Zesterra

A 100% natural supplement designed to neutralize gastric acid, supporting horses prone to stress and ulcers caused by training, traveling, and weather changes. Benefits include:
✔ Stress relief & ulcer prevention
✔ Encourages water intake & appetite
✔ Boosts immune function

 

Client Expectations
 

To ensure the health and safety of all horses in training, clients must adhere to the following:
 

Health Requirements
 

• Horses must be up-to-date on all vaccinations, worming, dental care, and farrier work.

  • Proof of vaccinations, worming, and dental work is required prior to arrival.

  • If these services are not completed before arrival, they will be arranged, and the client will be invoiced accordingly.

• Negative Coggins test required for out-of-state horses.
   

Additional Costs & Responsibilities
 

• If you choose to provide grain other than Cleveringa Equine Feed, you may do so at your own expense.

• Hauling & Seasoning Fee: $0.50/mile, invoiced accordingly.

• Exhibitions & Entry Fees: Clients are responsible for all competition-related expenses.
   

Equine Wellness & Performance Care

• Discounted MagnaWave therapy sessions available for $50/session. If a horse is showing signs of soreness, this will be communicated to the client.
   

• Chiropractic & MagnaWave Treatments: These horses are athletes, and their comfort directly impacts performance. If I determine that a horse requires chiropractic or MagnaWave treatment, I will discuss it with the client before proceeding. If approved, fees will be included in the invoice.

 

Training Programs, Rates & Inclusions
 

All training rates include hay, boarding, and full training sessions.
 

🔹 30-Day Refresher & Tune-Up – $1,200

Designed for horses that need a reset, fine-tuning, or conditioning. Ideal for those coming off a break, needing a mental or physical tune-up, or preparing for competition.

What’s Included:
✔ 5 rides per week focusing on responsiveness, softness, and efficiency
✔ Adjustments to correct bad habits, stiffness, or lack of focus
✔ Video updates & progress check-ins

Best for: Horses that already have a foundation but need a reset before getting back to work.

 

🔹 Colt Starting Program (60-Day Minimum) – $2,200 ($1,100/month)

A solid foundation is key to a great performance horse. This program is designed for young horses that need a confident, correct, and well-balanced start under saddle.

What’s Included:
✔ Groundwork, desensitization, and confidence-building
✔ First rides under saddle with an emphasis on softness, balance, and control
✔ Exposure to new environments, obstacles, and light hauling
✔ Video updates & progress check-ins

Best for: Young horses needing a thoughtful and correct start to their career.

 

🔹 Season & Haul Program (4-Month Commitment) – $5,000 ($1,250/month, includes hauling)

A comprehensive program for barrel horses ready to gain real-world competition experience while staying tuned and conditioned. LIMITED AVAILABILITY.

What’s Included:
✔ 5 days per week of training, tuning, and conditioning
✔ Hauling to exhibitions, jackpots, and rodeos for exposure
✔ Competition entries & on-the-road experience
✔ Mental and physical preparation for high-level performance
✔ Video updates & performance evaluations

Best for: Horses that know their job but need seasoning, confidence, and exposure in a competition setting.

 

🔹 Young Horse Development Program (6-Month Commitment) – $6,000 ($1,000/month)

A long-term training investment for young prospects to develop confidence, body control, and readiness for competition. This program takes the time needed to progress correctly without rushing. LIMITED AVAILABILITY.

What’s Included:
✔ Full training 5 days per week with a focus on responsiveness & fundamentals
✔ Slow, methodical introduction to the barrel pattern (if applicable)
✔ Exposure to hauling, obstacles, and new environments
✔ Monthly evaluations & progress reports
✔ Light competition exposure when ready

Best for: Young horses that need time, patience, and correct development before becoming serious competitors.

 

 

Final Notes

At CM Performance Horses, I take pride in treating every horse as my own. My goal is to develop confident, willing, and competitive athletes while maintaining open communication with each client. If you have any questions about our training program or expectations, please reach out.

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Thank you for trusting CM Performance Horses with your horse’s development!

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