Horseback riders have long seen the benefit of the Alexander Technique. This is because correct riding relies on many of the same qualities that can be cultivated by lessons in the Technique. The Alexander Technique Practice has a teacher who is a student of classical dressage with Minette-Rice Edwards and specialises in Alexander Technique as it applies to horseback riding. She can visit your stable for talks, workshops and on-site lessons. She also teaches riding in the Richmond-area. For more information call Vicky at 07851 738 666 or visit her website for more information.
Thursday evening class on Alexander Technique for Riders:
Dates: June 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd
Time: 6:15-7:45pm
Venue: Vauxhall City Farm, 165 Tyers Street SE11 5HS
"This four-session introduction to the Alexander Technique gave me a really good and clear understanding of how this type of work can help me undo postural issues and learn how to use myself better in order to improve my riding" ...F.D.
Please contact Vicky at victoria@alexandertechniquepractice.com if you are interested in attending a course.
What problems do you experience when you ride?
- Do you feel crooked on your horse?
- Do you suffer from stiffness and pain when you ride?
- Are you unable to release tension in your shoulders?
- Do nerves and anxiety affect your performance?
- Do you feel unbalanced or insecure in the saddle?
- Are you worried that your bad habits are affecting your horse's well-being?
- Do you aim to ride quietly, but find that you overuse your hands and legs?
- Do you find yourself unable to change bad habits and improve in spite of instruction?
In an Alexander Technique lesson the teacher combines verbal instructions with gentle hands-on work to restore your natural balance and ease of movement. Alexander Technique lessons can be taught on horseback, but are just as effective on a wooden horse, or even a chair. This means you can work on your riding without even getting on a horse!! Lessons in the Technique can not only improve your riding, but also your general well-being.
How Riders Can Benefit
Improves balance, making you a safer rider
Develops awareness of how you use your body and how that affects the horse
Enables better control and coordination of the body
Helps the rider to interfere less with the movement of the horse
Helps with performance anxiety
Improves posture and poise
Reduces excess tension that can lead to strain and injury
Helps to develop independent use of the aids
Allows you to feel more comfortable on your horse
How To Get Started
Host a talk on the Alexander Technique and its benefits for riders
Following a talk, on-site lessons can be scheduled at a discounted rate.
Arrange an afternoon or all-day workshop. Workshops can be tailored to suit your interests.
Start a course of private lessons at one of our North London studios.