Equine Pole Workshop in Somerset

This  7 hour CPD day in Somerset is provided by Rebeccah Baylis from LGS & Trudi Dempsey

This is a full theory & practical day looking at how pole work can support the ridden equine along side rehabilitation, strengthening & training.

 Trudi: As a gymnastic dressage coach & behaviour consultant Trudi uses poles in a wide range of situations. Pole work supports balance, proprioception, coordination & flexibility but there is an often missed extra when pole work is trained with behaviour in mind.

Introduced carefully & systematically, pole work training creates confidence & trust in the handler/rider.

Trudi promotes the idea of horses learning to be responsible for their own balance without the need for any rope or rein pressure.

During the workshop we will look at:

• Basic learning theory for rein/rope handling skills

• How to position yourself to support your horse when working on the ground

• Simple exercises for balance

• Introducing bend & flexion

• Poles in series to benefit rhythm & regularity

• Proprioception exercises

• Pole box exercises in preparation for lateral work

From a Therapist eye we will:

·        Look at In-hand exercises for developing proprioception & straightness.

·        Long reining for core strength & improved flexibility.

·        Ridden exercises to develop core strength & flexibility, given in walk to enable the equine therapist to provide onsite help, plus recommendations for faster paces as aftercare strengthening.

·        We will specifically target muscle groups according to the needs of the horse, along with general core strengthening & postural correctness of the horse.

·        The aim is to build balance, stability, enhance flexibility & coordination in the ridden equine as part of their education process. This is also valuable for re-educating post injury or for fitness training.

This course is for anyone interested in rehabilitation & training in the ridden equine.

It is possible to bring your horse as a ridden participant.  Please contact the organiser.

£60 per rider/horse (spaces limited)

£100 for therapist CPD attendance