Instruction
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Group Lessons
Group Lesson
I keep the groups very small, 4 at the most, to enable the clients to actually take the time to learn something! Classes are grouped according to ability ranging from ages 6 to 70. I am a classical instructor therefore all disciplines taught are based on this philosophy.
Private Lessons
Pictured below are a couple of examples of 2 private lessons showing how the horses improve their way of going throughout the lesson.
Lesson 1
Before
At the beginning of the lesson Stephanie is obviously on the right rein although her upper body is most definitely riding to the left - Henry's expression speaks volumes - the straight arms against his mouth - the inside leg asking for over not forward.
After
Here, midway through her instruction, Stephanie has lengthened her lower leg to provide the all important support and impulsion that Henry needs. Although a little over bent, Henry has raised his back and is now walking underneath her rather than dipping his back. Were Steph to raise her hands, stomach muscles and place her shoulders back, Henry would raise with her and be in a beautiful outline.
Lesson 2
Before
Here Jacqui's position is very tense. Her body has lost its alignment, pushing her seat to the rear of the saddle and throwing her shoulders forward. Jacqui's joints (in particular the knee) are locked and tight with her heel raised. Jason is reacting and objecting to her seat:- his tail is swishing, his head tilted to one side therefore his back has hollowed and flattened his whole outline.
After
After 20 minutes of transitions, bends and flexions, I removed Jacqui's stirrups to lengthen her leg and support him. Jacqui's elbows are nicely folded allowing her to yield to Jason's mouth and her hand carriage is in a more sensible position.
Almost immediately Jason has relaxed to these adjustments and although a little heavy on the bridle the overall picture is becoming more pleasing.
Almost immediately Jason has relaxed to these adjustments and although a little heavy on the bridle the overall picture is becoming more pleasing.