frequently asked questions...
What training methods do we use?
Our unique systems fuse ethical horsemanship, biomechanics, straightness and classical training and are designed to maximise mental and physical engagement, which we believe to have a symbiotic relationship.
A strong focus on self-regulation & self-carriage builds security and self confidence and equips the horse with valuable coping skills and tools to achieve common tasks asked of them, reducing the incidence of vices on the ground and under saddle and harbouring a relationship based on trust. Every horse begins their training on the ground to introduce new concepts and cues, begin postural & muscular development and correct physical imbalance & alignment without the burden of extra weight or reinforced compensatory patterns, this aids a fluid transition to ridden training and enables the efficient carriage of both themselves and a rider. This promotes willingness, soundness and longevity. We are focused on preparation every step of the way as opposed to simply 'getting the job done' so you can rest assured on our commitment and investment in you and you horse.
Why ground training?
Ground training is very important to us - it allows us to make a safe assessment of what we will begin to work on and how we will approach training with each individual, to get the best results. Ground training builds trust between human and horse alongside building physical strength, improving balance and correcting asymmetry, without the hindrance of and in preparation for carriage of a rider. It allows us to begin the installation of cues which aid understanding under saddle and creates a safe and controlled environment for introducing each element of training, from tying up and routine handling, to bridles and saddles, to riders. PLUS, self-management and self-carriage are key to self-confidence!
What age is it recommended to commence training?
Relationship building, basic handling, posture development and body control can begin at an early age, we are happy to take youngsters from weaning at around 5-6 months onward (we are even happy to assist with the weaning process). This type of training can continue up until the starting or backing process and beyond and gives your horse a head start in understanding concepts for continued training, alongside correct physical development.
What age should I start my horse under saddle?
This is a common question and though open to personal interpretation and opinion we take a scientific approach to the answer. We encourage responsible training with equine welfare at the forefront, we are also passionate about correct and functional physical development in order to produce healthy, happy and sound equine athletes. For this reason we prefer to begin the backing process and work under saddle at a minimum of ~4 years of age.
However...there are many other functional ways to work (and spend time with) your horse in the meantime! Mental, physical and postural development, confidence building, handling, balance and body control can begin at any age from 5-6 months onward.
How long will it take for my horse to be started under saddle or retrained?
Our general time-frame for complete starting, return to work or re-education is ~12-14 weeks, this is our best estimate based on previous results but, of course, each horse is individual so we are happy to accommodate any additional time required. We are dedicated to working through our training protocols in a thorough and systematic manner, with our goals aimed towards welfare, longevity and solid foundations for future training as opposed to 'quick fixes'. We always work according to the pace each individual horse requires, our estimated time frame aims to allow for adequate physical and mental development and for us to increase training intensity at a gradual rate, with changes in physical strength and correct muscle tone beginning to be visible at around 5 weeks. Taking all of these factors into consideration gives our horses the best chance at being able to comfortably and willingly complete what is asked of them while preventing injury, negative associations and 'sourness'.
What do I need to do in preparation for my horse's arrival?
Nothing!
Simply book your training program (via our online booking form), we will make our initial assessments during the start of training, identify how we will begin and the approach best suited to your horse and away we go! You also don't need to worry about dropping off a dirty pony, getting teeth or feet done if you're not able and if your horse is currently a troubled traveller we can recommend safe and reliable transport options. We can take care of making them more presentable during their stay and have access to trusted industry professionals who can take care of dentistry, farriery or body work - just let us know if/what you'd like us to schedule during their stay. Should we have any of our regular professionals making a scheduled visit, a courtesy message will usually be sent out to invite you to be included.
If you like homework we'd be happy to see you at one of our regular clinics prior to your program!
Float training and encouraging spatial boundaries are also a great start to your training goals.
Where will my horse live during their stay?
Our spacious and well maintained paddocks are the perfect spot for some down time, a snack or a good roll for our horses in training. Paddocks are rested, rotated and harrowed on a regular basis and are electric or post and rail.
Our holistic approach to training also means we believe in keeping bellies full and functioning - as such, grass hay is provided ad lib when necessary.
Will/should my horse be fed during training?
We take a holistic view to our training and believe good health from the inside out and an appropriate feeding regime can maximise the results of training, your horse may need additional feed alongside paddock and hay for maintained and continued muscle development and to account for increased energy expenditure. We recommend a high fibre, low sugar diet combined with a good quality vitamin/mineral supplement to aid internal homeostasis.
Yes! We can take care of this for you. Ration formulation, purchasing and feed prep can all be organised to ensure your horse looks their best on their return home! (Fees apply).
I'll miss my horse while he/she is away...can I visit?
No horse, no problem! You're welcome to visit during your horses' stay!
Visiting is welcomed during business hours and if you'd like to watch a training session simply notify us in advance (at the start of the week or several days in advance is recommended to allow us to accommodate). And don't forget the treats! 😊
Will I be able to continue with my horses' training alone? What if I forget what to do at home?
We pride ourselves on our customer (and equine!) service and our goal is longevity, we are invested in each horse and riders' journey and we love hearing updates on your progress. We are always happy to answer questions, big or small, or to help with your transition from training facility to home.
TWO complimentary handover sessions are included at the end of each training program, we use these to work through ground and ridden exercises that may be beneficial for continuing training at home and help you to develop the relationship between you and your horse while building confidence in and between horse and handler/rider. Further sessions may be scheduled at your request.
We also hold regular clinic days at several locations, including our home facility to keep you on track!
Our unique systems fuse ethical horsemanship, biomechanics, straightness and classical training and are designed to maximise mental and physical engagement, which we believe to have a symbiotic relationship.
A strong focus on self-regulation & self-carriage builds security and self confidence and equips the horse with valuable coping skills and tools to achieve common tasks asked of them, reducing the incidence of vices on the ground and under saddle and harbouring a relationship based on trust. Every horse begins their training on the ground to introduce new concepts and cues, begin postural & muscular development and correct physical imbalance & alignment without the burden of extra weight or reinforced compensatory patterns, this aids a fluid transition to ridden training and enables the efficient carriage of both themselves and a rider. This promotes willingness, soundness and longevity. We are focused on preparation every step of the way as opposed to simply 'getting the job done' so you can rest assured on our commitment and investment in you and you horse.
Why ground training?
Ground training is very important to us - it allows us to make a safe assessment of what we will begin to work on and how we will approach training with each individual, to get the best results. Ground training builds trust between human and horse alongside building physical strength, improving balance and correcting asymmetry, without the hindrance of and in preparation for carriage of a rider. It allows us to begin the installation of cues which aid understanding under saddle and creates a safe and controlled environment for introducing each element of training, from tying up and routine handling, to bridles and saddles, to riders. PLUS, self-management and self-carriage are key to self-confidence!
What age is it recommended to commence training?
Relationship building, basic handling, posture development and body control can begin at an early age, we are happy to take youngsters from weaning at around 5-6 months onward (we are even happy to assist with the weaning process). This type of training can continue up until the starting or backing process and beyond and gives your horse a head start in understanding concepts for continued training, alongside correct physical development.
What age should I start my horse under saddle?
This is a common question and though open to personal interpretation and opinion we take a scientific approach to the answer. We encourage responsible training with equine welfare at the forefront, we are also passionate about correct and functional physical development in order to produce healthy, happy and sound equine athletes. For this reason we prefer to begin the backing process and work under saddle at a minimum of ~4 years of age.
However...there are many other functional ways to work (and spend time with) your horse in the meantime! Mental, physical and postural development, confidence building, handling, balance and body control can begin at any age from 5-6 months onward.
How long will it take for my horse to be started under saddle or retrained?
Our general time-frame for complete starting, return to work or re-education is ~12-14 weeks, this is our best estimate based on previous results but, of course, each horse is individual so we are happy to accommodate any additional time required. We are dedicated to working through our training protocols in a thorough and systematic manner, with our goals aimed towards welfare, longevity and solid foundations for future training as opposed to 'quick fixes'. We always work according to the pace each individual horse requires, our estimated time frame aims to allow for adequate physical and mental development and for us to increase training intensity at a gradual rate, with changes in physical strength and correct muscle tone beginning to be visible at around 5 weeks. Taking all of these factors into consideration gives our horses the best chance at being able to comfortably and willingly complete what is asked of them while preventing injury, negative associations and 'sourness'.
What do I need to do in preparation for my horse's arrival?
Nothing!
Simply book your training program (via our online booking form), we will make our initial assessments during the start of training, identify how we will begin and the approach best suited to your horse and away we go! You also don't need to worry about dropping off a dirty pony, getting teeth or feet done if you're not able and if your horse is currently a troubled traveller we can recommend safe and reliable transport options. We can take care of making them more presentable during their stay and have access to trusted industry professionals who can take care of dentistry, farriery or body work - just let us know if/what you'd like us to schedule during their stay. Should we have any of our regular professionals making a scheduled visit, a courtesy message will usually be sent out to invite you to be included.
If you like homework we'd be happy to see you at one of our regular clinics prior to your program!
Float training and encouraging spatial boundaries are also a great start to your training goals.
Where will my horse live during their stay?
Our spacious and well maintained paddocks are the perfect spot for some down time, a snack or a good roll for our horses in training. Paddocks are rested, rotated and harrowed on a regular basis and are electric or post and rail.
Our holistic approach to training also means we believe in keeping bellies full and functioning - as such, grass hay is provided ad lib when necessary.
Will/should my horse be fed during training?
We take a holistic view to our training and believe good health from the inside out and an appropriate feeding regime can maximise the results of training, your horse may need additional feed alongside paddock and hay for maintained and continued muscle development and to account for increased energy expenditure. We recommend a high fibre, low sugar diet combined with a good quality vitamin/mineral supplement to aid internal homeostasis.
Yes! We can take care of this for you. Ration formulation, purchasing and feed prep can all be organised to ensure your horse looks their best on their return home! (Fees apply).
I'll miss my horse while he/she is away...can I visit?
No horse, no problem! You're welcome to visit during your horses' stay!
Visiting is welcomed during business hours and if you'd like to watch a training session simply notify us in advance (at the start of the week or several days in advance is recommended to allow us to accommodate). And don't forget the treats! 😊
Will I be able to continue with my horses' training alone? What if I forget what to do at home?
We pride ourselves on our customer (and equine!) service and our goal is longevity, we are invested in each horse and riders' journey and we love hearing updates on your progress. We are always happy to answer questions, big or small, or to help with your transition from training facility to home.
TWO complimentary handover sessions are included at the end of each training program, we use these to work through ground and ridden exercises that may be beneficial for continuing training at home and help you to develop the relationship between you and your horse while building confidence in and between horse and handler/rider. Further sessions may be scheduled at your request.
We also hold regular clinic days at several locations, including our home facility to keep you on track!