Clinic Descriptions
Clinics days are divided into theory, simulations and practical exercises. We will take time to discuss the philosophy and concepts of natural horsemanship (as opposed to traditional horsemanship) at every level. Depending on the level, we may spend the whole clinic doing ground work, or split the days between ground skills and riding.
This is where you can find out what is involved in a clinic. If you have any doubts about where you fit in, please contact the clinic coordinator or the instructor.
Interested in organizing an event?
Check out the things you need to know and the benefits of becoming a host!
10 (11!) reasons for participating in a clinic!
Progressive Clinics
Students are grouped by level and experience to enjoy a progressive learning experience.
Would you like to participate in an intensive advanced-level clinic, in a small group, including the opportunity to receive private coaching sessions? Host us for a week-long Intensive Foundation Camp, only for the most dedicated and motivated students!
Examples of Topic-Specific Clinic Formats
Everything you ever wanted to know about circles (2 days) – this is for many one of the most challenging patterns to do with quality, and it often falls apart when you try to add quantity or distance. We’ll explore horse psychology, tools, techniques, simulations, and strategies for different personalities of horses and problem-solving. You’ll go home with the information and knowledge to up the ante and develop better rhythm, relaxation, contact and mutual responsibilities.
Trail Riding with Confidence (3 days) – prior and proper preparation for a safe and enjoyable ride out, tips and techniques for negotiating obstacles, what to do in case of trouble, group etiquette, herd dynamics, and games to play on the trail.
Understanding Your Horse in Depth (2 days) – learn to read and assess your horse, demonstrations with various Horsenalities, strategies on the ground and in the saddle to play with the horse that shows up and achieve your desired outcome!
Riding with Fluidity (2 days or more) – develop harmony in the saddle by learning how to flow with your horse at all gaits, what you need to do in your body to be in balance and to help your horse move correctly, posture analysis, timing with the footfalls, Steady Rein, adapting your posture to what you are trying to accomplish (Freestyle vs Finesse).
Learning to Jump (2 days) – as you advance in the program, you need to start learning to jump in the saddle. As a trained hunter/jumper coach and former competitor, I have years of experience to share about the art of jumping. We’ll start on the ground and help you and your horse learn to tackle small and medium obstacles with ease and confidence.
Trailer Loading Savvy (2 days) – why would a horse want to walk into a metal trap on wheels? We’ll find out how to prepare your horse for the trailer, how to build his confidence loading, unloading, and staying inside the trailer, safety aspects of loading and travelling with horses, and the knots to know. It’s not about the trailer; it’s about confidence, respect and responsiveness without making the horse feel like a loser! Come find out how to put the relationship first to achieve one of the most challenging outcomes from the horse’s point of view.
Playing at Liberty (2 days or more) – when you take off the lead line, you are left with the TRUTH! Learn how to set yourself up for success by practicing perfectly on line and knowing when your horse is ready for Liberty; how to become irresistible and captivating for your horse; how to be accurate when addressing different zones; the geometry of the round pen; strategies according to your horse’s personality; games and patterns at Liberty; all building to a stronger bond with your horse.
VIP (Very Immersive Private) Clinics are for small groups (1 to 3 students) who wish to make a private booking for a specifically tailored clinic lasting 3 days or more, where they will partake in an intense, focused, and personalized learning experience. Participants in VIP clinics will also benefit from free level assessments and a follow-up service by email and by phone.
Saddle Savvy and Makeovers (1 or 2 days) – includes theory, simulations, demonstrations, and makeovers with horses. This clinic is more than a saddle makeover. It is an in-depth study of biomechanics, posture analysis, how to make a horse happier and more comfortable, plus information on how you can protect its back when being ridden. You may bring your own horse for a test ride or watch as we will be using demo horses to learn and demonstrate. Even if you don’t bring a horse, you should bring the saddle and pad you are currently using, as we will also learn how saddles can help or compromise you as a rider.
Rider Biomechanics – helping riders of all levels improve their seat, posture, and balance through a combination of theory, simulations, and practical exercises on horseback. In RIDER Biomechanics, we don’t just look at movement; we look at WHY things happen. It’s not just “look up and get your heels down”, but WHY did your heels come up in the first place? It looks at your spine and anatomy to make sure you’re sitting in a strong, safe position. We can improve performance, help you get the competitive edge, help the beginner sit in a stronger, safer position, and help prevent injury and rehabilitate the injuries you already have—to help you ride long hours without pain.
Other clinic formats and topics are possible to suit your group’s requirements or interests, for example, we can have a clinic focusing on patterns, on bridleless riding, on riding dynamics and fluidity, on gaining confidence as a rider, on preparing for riding with contact or just for kids. Contact us to discuss your group’s needs and wants!
