Therapeutic Training and Riding

The Therapeutic Approach takes not only the horse's physical well-being into consideration, but also focuses on each horse's emotional state. It always aims to improve happiness, confidence, and pride in our equine partners while building strong and powerful bodies.  

In the physically therapeutic approach to riding, I use physical exercises as a form of therapy to improve the way the horse feels throughout his whole body and therefore his mind. I strive to loosen tension in the body and teach the horse to engage his body properly, to use and relax muscles properly, therefore building a strong, supple foundation that supports joints and bones for the hard work to come.

I work to free up physical blocks and limitations, and to help the horse perform at it's highest ability. The ultimate goal is to create a body that is strong enough to last through many years of riding with the least amount of wear and tear possible, rather than enjoying a short burst of success before breaking down.


In the mentally and emotionally therapeutic approach to riding, I always strive to break through the blocks and defenses the horse has erected, to get his mind to relax, to enjoy the work and to gain his trust. I want the horse to look at work as a fun and rewarding experience. A chance to feel proud and yes - feel like he is better and more special than any other horse in the barn - even if he moves like a donkey. As long as they all feel equally important, you have a barn full of happy horses.

Nothing is more rewarding than a horse who lets you know he's a little annoyed with you because - Lord forbid - you decided to give him a day off. That is when you know that training and work has become rewarding to them. That it is something they truly look forward to.

The therapeutic approach serves as a compassionate method to success that aims to keep horses as happy as possible and never sacrifices the horses well-being to achieve results. It can also have "rehabilitating" effects, building strong bodies while soothing the mind. It aims to build not just partnerships, but friendships with the horse, and to forge a strong emotional bond between horse and rider.