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The ridden approach builds on the foundation laid through in-hand training, focusing on enhancing balance, strength, and responsiveness while under saddle. My aim is to create a horse that moves freely and comfortably, with lightness, relaxation, and correct biomechanics at the core of their training.
Key Aspects of the Ridden Approach:
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Softness & Relaxation – Promotes a calm, tension-free ride, building trust and harmony between horse and rider.
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Balance & Self-Carriage – Focuses on developing correct posture and engagement, ensuring the horse moves efficiently and comfortably.
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Clear, Light Communication – Uses subtle aids to refine the horse’s responses, helping them become a confident and willing partner.
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Progressive Training – Builds strength and flexibility in a structured way, guiding the horse through all levels of development.
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Physical & Mental Well-Being – Ensures the horse’s comfort and long-term soundness by respecting their physical and emotional needs.
This approach works seamlessly with in-hand groundwork, fostering a smooth transition between stages of training while always prioritising the horse’s well-being.
The Ridden Approach: Developing Balance & Harmony Under Saddle
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In-hand work is an essential part of my training approach, helping horses develop strength, balance, and confidence before and alongside ridden work.
This method refines communication, improves biomechanics, and supports rehabilitation—all while building a deeper connection between horse and handler.
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Prepares for Ridden Work – Develops correct posture, muscle engagement, and responsiveness before adding a rider.
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Encourages Biomechanics & Balance – Supports suppleness, straightness, and self-carriage for smoother, more natural movement.
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Builds Communication & Trust – Helps horses understand cues with clarity, promoting relaxation and willingness.
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Aids Rehabilitation & Strengthening – Ideal for horses recovering from injury or needing structured development before being ridden.
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Refines Precision & Lightness – Enhances lateral work, collection, and engagement in a controlled and supportive way.
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Inspired by my time training under Manolo Mendez, in-hand work plays a key role in my philosophy, ensuring each horse moves correctly, comfortably, and with confidence.
In-Hand Training: The Foundation for Balance & Communication
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The bodywork approach is dedicated to enhancing your horse’s physical comfort, ensuring they move with ease and without restriction. Through hands-on techniques, we focus on releasing tension, improving flexibility, and supporting overall soundness, helping create a well-balanced, pain-free horse. This approach works alongside in-hand and ridden training, ensuring your horse feels their best throughout their development.
Key Aspects of the Bodywork Approach:
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Tension Release – Alleviates tightness or discomfort that can impact movement and performance.
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Improved Mobility & Flexibility – Encourages free movement by reducing stiffness and preventing compensatory patterns.
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Posture & Alignment – Supports proper posture, helping with balance and self-carriage.
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Relaxation & Mental Well-Being – Addresses both physical and emotional stress, promoting a calm, happy horse.
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Supports Training & Rehabilitation – Complements in-hand and ridden training by ensuring the horse is physically prepared and comfortable.