What is Centered Riding?

Centered Riding® is an innovative way of expressing the classical principles of riding, using body awareness, centering and imagery.

Centered Riding is simply a new way of expressing the classical principles of riding. It answers the question of "how", when the riding instructor tells you "what" to do to communicate with your horse. It applies equally to all english and western riding disciplines.

Many people are caught in the trap of unconscious habit. Their bodies know only the old habitual way of movement. Centered Riding, with simplicity and logic, allows the rider to discover an inner balance, serenity and control that in turn gives greater freedom of movement, suppleness and coordination. These new qualities are reflected in the horse as increased balance, poise and forward motion. The horse and rider become as one, in harmony.

Centered Riding is built on the foundation of the Four Basics:

1. Soft Eyes allow a greater field of vision, increased awareness of your own and your horse's body, less tension and easier, freer forward movement.
2. Proper Breathing also reduces tension in your body, helps to lower your center of gravity and allows the horse to become quieter and more responsive while reducing your fatigue.
3. Centering takes you to your center of control and energy deep in the lower body. This also allows your seat to be stable and secure. Centering releases tensions that block the flow of energy through your body and leaves you ready for the next movement or exercise.
4. Building Blocks aligns your body and gives you true and consistent balance over your horse's center of gravity which encourages the fluid and comfortable movement of your horse.

Find out how Centered Riding can work for you! For more information contact us

Ellen Redden
• Level II Centered Riding Instructor
• British Horse Society Horsemaster
• BHSAI
• Pony Club “A”
• Teacher/Trainer of adults and children with over forty years of teaching horsemanship.