Services
BALANCE International registered Test Ride Facilitator
Test ride a selection of BALANCE saddles and pads on your horse using the BALANCE Saddling System principles. This usually takes 2+ hours. First, the rider will try several tree types and the horse’s movement issues are documented for each. Once we are sure of the tree type preference of the horse (best bio-mechanically correct movement) then the rider can focus on the riding style choices which suit her/him best.
Experiment with your existing saddle(s), provided they are wide enough for your horse, and the BALANCE pads to see which arrangement provides the best movement for your horse and a level seat of the saddle for the rider. Length of session is dependent on number of saddle changes, among other things. This type of session also includes a determination of appropriate width needed by the horse based on the BALANCE Saddling System principles as well as an assessment of the horse friendly and non-friendly saddle features for each saddle used in the session.
Equine Movement Rehabilitation
Identification of the quality and correct rhythm of the movements described in the BALANCE Saddling System Remedial Programme. Also applied are some basic Feldenkrais movements adapted for use by the horse.
Constructive Riding
Instruction for rider and horse which applies the bio-mechanically correct BALANCE methods as well as simple Feldendrais movements applicable to riding. These are used to support and straighten the horse as well as the rider. Also addressed are balance in the vertical, horizontal and side to side planes.
Presentations
Horse Friendly Saddle Features
Saddling and Bio-mechanics Lecture/Demo
* Ask about donation of lecture and demonstration time to equine non-profits for fundraisers.
Dismounted Riding Clinics
Often knowledge is more deeply internalized when the learning environment becomes very simple and the repetitions necessary can be attempted and improved upon by not taxing the patience or strength of the horse. These sessions are held in a classroom setting with props like reins and balance balls and chairs. They apply the bio-mechanically supportive movements necessary in riding for the rider to stay out of the way of the moving parts of the horse. Basic Feldenkrais movements are also explored which help us become more aware of unevenness and help us start to reprogram our central nervous system. Of course, when we address this correction in ourselves, we can then be aware of imbalances in our horse and help support their own improved development.
Phone and email consultations
Please contact for current rates. Email preferred due to time constraints.
Assessment for larger Equine Facilities
Due to the fact that a BALANCE saddle can be used on quite a selection of horses by changing the pad arrangements, it can be very economical for facilities with a number of horses to actually reduce the number of saddles necessary. This is especially the case where all the horses are not in use at the same time. Experience has shown that therapeutic riding centers, children’s riding centers, horse rescues and lesson barns can also benefit by reducing the incidence of back soreness and lameness due to saddle related issues. These horses especially need the extra protection of the BALANCE padding system and the horse friendly features of the BALANCE saddles.