The term “horsepower” comes from the chant that horses used to shout at engineers working on the newfangled railway system. Befriend trailblazing stallions and mares with today's Groupon: for $59, you get three horseback-riding lessons at Timbermist Farm in Pleasant Hill, approximately 15 miles from Lee's Summit (a $120 value).

Timbermist Farm, which is stationed on 50 acres of rolling green meadows, hosts a staff of expert equestrians that coaches both beginning and experienced riders during individual lessons focusing on safety, control, and confidence. All pupils begin their horseback adventures with a private lesson from 40-year horse-riding veterans Tina English or Chuck Browning, who instruct the English technique of riding—which uses a flat saddle for an upright riding position––rather than slanted saddles, which lean riders forward, or upside-down saddles, which cause headaches. Riders may be paired with different horses to teach a new set of skills, establishing a foundation for well-rounded horse knowledge. Timbermist Farm provides helmets, though students should wear proper riding attire, which includes long pants; flat, hard-soled boots with a short heel; and gloves for commanding the horse's reins and for slapping the secretary of the treasury to precipitate a duel.