Duo Horsemanship - Runnells, Iowa

Andi K.

Emily has been so incredible to work with over the 3 years I have known her and used her services. Her lessons have helped me grow as a rider and understand horse behavior better than I ever did in all my previous years' experience. She helped me purchase my first horse, and has been instrumental in guiding me through horse ownership. I board my horse at her facility and can rest easy knowing my horse is well taken care of as if he was her own. I recently hired her to do a training tune up on my horse after winter and I was absolutely amazed what she did with him in just a month! I was able to start riding him as soon as the weather warmed up, and I look forward to our continued lessons with Emily to become an even better horse and rider. I recommend Emily to everyone I know who is interested in horses or wanting to try a new summer activity! Her services are affordable, and she offers a beautiful judgement free space to learn and understand what working with horses can be!

Jessica C.

I've been riding with Emily at Duo Horsemanship for about 6 years now and have LOVED every moment! I was a complete beginner when I started riding as an adult, and Emily was incredibly patient and encouraging in her teaching. I've always appreciated how she aligns her lessons to each individual rider's goals and comfort level. She emphasizes establishing good foundational practices and creating a trusting relationship between horse and rider. I love that she uses positive reinforcement in her training and shows how to care for a horse as a whole experience (not just riding), including grooming, taking care of your tack, and ground work. Getting to know Emily and all the wonderful horses at Duo has been one of my favorite things since moving to the Des Moines area. Whether you're an adult or child, a beginner/casual rider or have specific goals you want help reaching, I can't recommend her enough!

Jess M.

Emily of DuoHorsemansip has shown care, intuition, and responsibility alongside a strong foundation of knowledge both when training and tuning up my daughter's horse and teaching her how to ride. Emily listens to your goals and keeps on track to reach them. Can't recommend DuoHorsemansip enough!

Jamie

The BEST place in Des Moines for Western style riding! I have been riding with Duo Horsemanship for about 4 years and it’s by far my favorite day of each week. The owner Emily is incredibly knowledgeable, ONLY uses positive reinforcement for training her horses, and I have always felt very safe when riding at Duo Horsemanship.

Emily teaches all the lessons herself and they are completely customized to what you as an individual are working on/towards. She has several horses and can accommodate any rider. Whether you like horses and want to learn more and take lessons, or maybe you are very experienced, but want to fine tooth your skills for competition; either way I would highly recommend Duo Horsemanship.

If you are new to the horse world, Emily will teach you the skills needed for proper horse care including brushing, cleaning hooves, how to adjust your own saddle and reins, etc. I confidently recommend Duo Horsemanship to anyone who likes horses and wants to take lessons and anyone interested in competing with their own horse. Wonderful horses that are well cared for and a wonderful trainer who believes in positive reinforcement training.

Liz M.

I feel fortunate to have found Emily as a trainer. I came to Emily at a low point - after an accident with my mare whom I used to think of as chilled, stoic, maybe a little aloof (but occasionally spooky too). Working with Emily has helped me see that my mare is actually very sensitive and emotional, but just good at hiding it. Emily has also helped identify some gaps in our education, and generally is helping me to be a better leader and communicator with my horses. Emily is calm, patient, kind, confident, and gentle; these qualities permeate the atmosphere at the farm and are conducive to learning, certainly for me and I believe for my horses as well. I highly recommend Emily as a trainer.

Jared C.

Emily is sooooo good at calmly and consistently teaching horsemanship. If you have a skill you get stuck on, she will patiently and expertly help you conquer it. Very much recommend for any skill level.

Kathryn V.

Emily has been an incredible influence when it comes to improving my riding and my knowledge with horsemanship. Her knowledge is visible in the way she works with the horses in her care, and the way she works with people.

Kyle B.

Emily not only works with our horse, but works with US so we have a better understanding and do better has horse owners.