What to Expect - and How to Thrive - When Your Barn Switches to EC Pro: A Riders Point of View

What to Expect - and How to Thrive - When Your Barn Switches to EC Pro

For the Rider

If your barn is making the switch to EC Pro, you might be thinking, “Here we go again!” And we get it, because whether you’re used to booking lessons through phone calls, texts, or even a paper calendar, transitioning to an online system can feel like a big change. But don’t worry, EC Pro is designed to make scheduling, payments, and communication easier for everyone involved!

Here’s what you can look forward to as your barn starts using EC Pro.

Easier Online Booking

Gone are the days of back-and-forth texts with your trainer or showing up hoping there’s a spot for you. With EC Pro, booking is quick, easy, and on your terms.

When you first log in, take a few minutes to explore the schedule layout. Look for your usual instructors or familiar time slots. You can book from your phone, tablet, or computer—whether you're at home, at work, or standing in the barn aisle.

If your schedule allows, try booking a few lessons at once. It gives you some consistency while you’re getting used to the new system. And if anything looks confusing—like unfamiliar lesson types or time slots—don’t hesitate to reach out to your barn. Most are more than happy to walk you through those first few bookings.

Need to cancel or reschedule? You can do that through the app too, just follow your barn’s cancellation policy. It’s all about putting more control in your hands while keeping things running smoothly for your trainers.

Automatic Reminders and Notifications

EC Pro sends automatic reminders before each lesson, so you always know when your next ride is coming up. These reminders (via email and push notification) include the date, time, and any important info—so you're never caught off guard.

Some barns also use EC Pro for announcements—like last-minute weather cancellations or horse assignments. Instead of digging through a group text thread from six hours ago, you’ll get the info directly and clearly.

When creating your rider profile, double-check that your email address and phone number are correct. That way, you won’t miss out on confirmations, cancellations, or schedule changes. If you’re not getting notifications, ask your barn staff to help you troubleshoot—better to catch it early than miss a ride!

Streamlined Payments

If you’re used to cash or checks, online payments might feel like a big change at first—but they’re a game-changer. You can pay for lessons, boarding, or other services all in one place. No more digging through your bag for your checkbook, or your trainer having to chase you down after a ride.

If your barn offers lesson packages, get in the habit of checking how many you have left after each session. Some barns also list package expiration dates, so you’ll always know when it’s time to renew—no last-minute surprises.

And if something seems off—like a missing payment or an unexpected charge—just ask. It’s always easier to clear up small questions right away than let them pile up.

Adjusting to the Change

Like any new system, EC Pro takes a little time to get used to—but most riders agree it’s totally worth it. Start small: book a lesson or two, check your reminders, and try a payment. After a few uses, it’ll feel less like “something new” and more like part of your routine.

When you log in for the first time, you’ll be asked to create a rider profile. From there, you can explore your dashboard, make a booking, view your upcoming schedule, and set up your payment details. The interface is built to be user-friendly—even if you wouldn’t call yourself tech-savvy.

You might have a few questions in the beginning, like how to buy a lesson package or where to find your payment history. Most of the answers are just a click or two away, and once you get in the habit of checking your EC Pro app, it becomes second nature—kind of like checking your calendar or group chat.

If your barn is also new to EC Pro, they’re probably figuring it out right alongside you. Give it all a little time, and don’t be shy about asking questions. When everyone’s on the same page, the system really shines—and your riding life gets a whole lot easier.

Wrap-up

When your barn makes the switch to EC Pro, it’s a step toward making your riding experience smoother and more organized. While it might take a little time to get used to, you’ll quickly love how easy booking, reminders, and communication can be. Embrace this change and enjoy a more fulfilling riding journey!