Leesburg, Virginia
Riding lessons for serious equestrians.
Dressage and hunter/jumper — open enrollment and competition prep, right outside Leesburg in the heart of Loudoun County.
The Barn
A home for riders who take it seriously.
C'est Chevaux has been a home for committed riders in Loudoun County for years. The barn runs on structure, clear roles, and a genuine care for the horses — and the people who ride them.
Bevin Nicholson has ridden her entire life. She is the only dressage instructor in the area working with competitive riders. Her roster is limited and selective — if you're preparing to show, she's who you want. Carrie and Sarah handle open enrollment for riders at every level.
Riders here tend to stay for years. The culture is serious about the horses and easy on the people.
The 3 C's
When a rider is calm, they find their control. When a rider is calm and in control, they find their confidence.
“This is my happy spot.”
— Bevin Nicholson, owner
Instructors
Three instructors. One barn.
Each instructor handles their own calendar. Book directly with the right one for your goals.
Not sure who to book with? Call (571) 276-4742 and we'll point you in the right direction.
What We Offer
A complete equestrian experience.
Riding Lessons
Individual and group lessons for riders of all levels. Bevin takes competitive dressage and hunter/jumper students. Carrie and Sarah handle open enrollment, including riders returning after time away.
Dressage & Hunter/Jumper
Owner-led training for riders who are actively showing or preparing to enter the ring in dressage or hunter/jumper. This is selective — Bevin works with a limited roster of students committed to the discipline.
Horse Show Events
C'est Chevaux competes regionally throughout the season. Clients are always welcome to come watch, cheer on the riders, and be part of what happens outside the barn.
Rider Education
Monthly themed learning built into the barn culture — quizzes, group discussion, no one gets called out. The goal is a barn where riders actually understand what they're doing and why.
Rider Fitness
The work starts before you mount.
Pre-ride warm-up exercises from Jack LaTorre at Equibody Fitness. Bevin recommends them for every rider. Do them before you tack up.
View all 23 exercises
Dressage Seat
Pelvic Tilt
The foundation of a correct dressage position. Do this before you ever put a foot in the stirrup.
Hip Rotation
90/90 Rotation
Builds the hip rotation you need to follow your horse's movement without bracing.
Hip Mobility
Hip Glide
Frees up lateral hip movement — directly improves your ability to sit the trot.
Inner Thigh & Seat
Butterfly Contraction
Activates the adductors — the muscles that actually hold your seat on the horse.
Hip Flexors
Elephant Walk
Opens the hip flexors — essential for older riders and anyone who sits at a desk before they ride.
Leg Strength
Split Squat
Develops the single-leg stability and strength that keeps your position from collapsing.
Get in Touch
Ready to ride?
whether you're just getting started or looking to sharpen your seat, we'd love to hear from you. Send us a message and someone will get back to you shortly.