NaSHA's Lesson Levels

A Clear Lesson Path Within the Shooting Horse Discipline for Rider Progression

Progress in the shooting horse discipline shouldn’t feel random, rushed, or confusing. Riders, horses, and families do best when they understand what they’re working toward and why it matters.

NaSHA’s Rider Progression Lesson Levels provide a clear framework for how skills develop within the shooting horse discipline—from foundational training through competitive performance. It is not a ranking system or a certification. It is a shared map that helps riders, and lesson instructors speak the same language, celebrate milestones, and know exactly when its time to progress. 

Speed and precision matter in this discipline. But they are outcomes of preparation, not shortcuts. Lesson levels focus on building the control, confidence, and communication that allow speed and accuracy to increase without breaking the horse.

This framework is used to guide instruction, place riders appropriately in lessons, and help riders understand when they are ready to move forward.  Note: Lesson Levels are a lesson-based development tool and are not evaluated or assigned during clinics or schools. Clinics are designed for learning and exposure, not progression assessment.

How Progression Works

Progression is based on demonstrated skills, not time spent or number of lessons attended. Riders may enter at different points depending on experience, and movement between levels happens when the horse and rider show readiness—not when a calendar says it’s time.
Download Instructor Lesson Guide  Download Lesson Level Progress Checklists
National Shooting Horse Association

Rider Progression Lesson Levels

NaSHA uses a color-based system to make lesson progression easy to understand and easy to communicate. These levels are descriptive, not judgmental, and are designed to support long-term competitive success.
Please click on the lesson level titles for FREE downloadable instructor progress guide & checklists!
Download Instructors Guide Here!

Lesson Levels for Rider Progression
  • White - Foundational

    Control, communication, calm introduction
    A rider is typically ready to move beyond White Level when they can demonstrate:
    ☐ Consistent steering and stopping at the walk and trot
    ☐ Ability to maintain rhythm without rushing
    ☐ Understanding of pressure and release timing
    ☐ Calm exposure to equipment and noise
    ☐ Ability to regain focus after small mistakes
    ☐ Horse remains relaxed and willing throughout sessions
    Horse and rider can work calmly and predictably in a structured environment.

  • Blue - Preparation

    Consistency and Preparation
    Blue Level focuses on repeatability. Riders begin linking skills together and preparing horses for more intentional work.
    A rider is generally ready to progress beyond Blue Level when the following are consistently demonstrated:
    ☐ Balanced, controlled lope in both directions
    ☐ Predictable transitions without loss of rhythm
    ☐ Intentional lines through basic patterns
    ☐ Accurate single-gun shooting exercises
    ☐ Rider can correct errors without escalating pressure
    ☐ Horse maintains confidence through repetition
    Blue Level sets the stage for increasing speed without sacrificing accuracy or confidence.

  • Green - Performance

    Speed with Accuracy
    Green Level introduces speed as a performance variable. Accuracy, decision-making, and composure become critical
    A rider is generally ready to progress beyond Green Level when the following are consistently demonstrated:
    ☐ Accuracy remains consistent as speed increases
    ☐ Turns are smooth and efficient
    ☐ Multiple exercises can be linked together
    ☐ Rider makes independent decisions during runs
    ☐ Mistakes are corrected without loss of composure
    ☐ Horse remains forward, responsive, and confident
    Green Level prepares horse and rider for true competitive environments.

  • Red - Precision

    Precision Under Pressure
    Red Level is about tightening margins. Riders refine efficiency, timing, and accuracy under increasing pressure.
    A rider is generally ready to progress beyond Red Level when the following are consistently demonstrated:
    ☐ Consistent accuracy under time pressure
    ☐ Efficient use of arena space and lines
    ☐ Maintained cadence through complex patterns
    ☐ Strategic decision-making during runs
    ☐ Minimal visible communication required
    ☐ Horse remains sound, focused, and willing
    Red Level supports consistent competitive performance across events and conditions.

  • Black - Mastery

    Strategy, Execution, Leadership
    Black Level represents advanced competitive performance and thoughtful horsemanship over time.
    A rider performing at Black Level demonstrates:
    ☐ High-level precision at competitive speed
    ☐ Ability to adapt to varied arenas and conditions
    ☐ Strategic pattern execution
    ☐ Consistency across multiple events
    ☐ Leadership through example in training and competition
    ☐ Strong focus on horse longevity and management
    Black Level reflects mastery, responsibility, and leadership within the shooting horse discipline.

Lesson Sign Up

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NaSHA's Arena Side Training Guide

A practical, arena-ready reference developed by NaSHA to support competitive shooting horse training. This guide reflects NaSHA’s Rider Progression framework and competitive training philosophy. It was developed as a working arena reference for riders and instructors and is shared freely to support clarity, consistency, and long-term success in the sport.

No sign-up required. No strings attached. Use it, share it, and put it to work.

Note: This PDF is formatted for double-sided, postcard-size printing in the correct order. A digital reference version will be available soon. Email us if you want placed on the notification list when it's available!
Download Arena Side Training Guide