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Are you having problems with your horse?

Bucking and bronking?
Falling in or out on a circle?
More difficult in one direction than the other?
Poor canter transitions?
Leaning on the bit or hanging on one rein?
Pulling, rushing?
Not going forward?
Spooking?

These are common symptoms of natural asymmetry.

The good news is, you can overcome them!

Hi, I'm Wendy Poore

I believe that, before being asked to carry a rider, horses should be physically coordinated and strong, able to balance, and have a clear understanding of the aids

They should be mentally prepared, so that they have a mental connection with the trainer, are relaxed and confident in their surroundings, and they know what is expected of them.

I also strongly believe that, in most cases, this should be taught from the ground.

The Balanced First school aims to empower horse owners to achieve a biomechanically correct, healthy posture and a calm, willing mental state in their horses.

By teaching science-based concepts and classical dressage techniques from the ground first, the school helps owners train their own horses without relying on regular lessons with a coach at home.

The goal is to create a balanced, supple and mentally sound horse, without the use of force or gadgets that cause pain or tension.

Ultimately, it’s about fostering a strong and harmonious connection between the horse and owner.

Karen Vale, UK

Alf hasn’t been the easiest of horse over the years with issues that I came to learn arose from his natural asymmetry. A long interest in classical riding led me to Wendy. What an incredible journey this has now become. Wendy’s knowledge and patience are immense. She has encouraged and challenged me to think for myself, study and read widely. I have grown in confidence – not just with Alf, but in my own development as well. It’s not just about the horse. I would have continued to do what I was doing – with the same results. It is Wendy’s teaching and support that are enabling the true, happy Alf to emerge. The horse that has always been there is shining through. A magnificent partner who can move beautifully and correctly, showing willingness, collection and lightness.

Empowering you to achieve a biomechanically correct, healthy posture and an open, calm, and willing mental state in your horse.

Balanced movement: Teach your horse to move in a balanced, healthy posture using a tried-and-tested step-by-step method.
Science-based training: Learn science-based concepts so that you can solve problems yourself without having to rely on a trainer.
Dressage movements: Teach your horse all dressage movements with balance, suppleness, shape, tempo, and rhythm.
Classical dressage: Seek what the grand masters sought - train with exercises inspired by masters such as Gustav Steinbrecht and François Robichon de La Guérinière
Effective aids: Avoid confusion by teaching your horse a set of aids from the ground that easily transfer to riding.
No gadgets: Longe your horse in self-carriage without using gadgets that can cause pain and tension.
A polite horse: Create boundaries to stop your horse pushing into your space, biting, and nipping.
Mental state: Bring your horse to a high mental state.
Liberty connection: Create a liberty connection and perform all dressage exercises without tools.