Work Rider
Progression Programme

What Does the Training Cover?

Practical skills development will include:

• Ability to ride with a single and double bridge
• Ability to change hands
• Riding in a balanced, effective position at all paces in the lead position, upsides and as part of the string
• Demonstrating correct use of the whip (according to yard practice)
• Riding and improving a horse’s way of going effectively and competently in all paces according to instructions
• Showing an understanding of pace and distance
• Giving detailed feedback on the horse’s way of going and issues that may affect horse performance and welfare

These practical skills are backed up by understanding the principles of training and fittening racehorses including:

• The principles of training and getting racehorses fit
• Understanding the importance of a balanced, effective position on horse performance
• Understanding the physical barriers to improve horse performance
• The effect of temperament and fitness on exercise regimes
• The effects of going, terrain and surface on horse performance
• Minimising risks to self, horses and others when riding

Video and photographic feedback will be provided to enable participants to monitor their own improvement.

Coaching can progress over time to suit the individual and can lead to more advanced horsemanship skills to include schooling and riding work.