FG Equestrian Training

29/04/2025

The movement of your horse’s hind legs can be broken down into the following three phases; thrust, reach, and carry.

Each phase is important and each one impacts the next, e.g. the more weight the horse takes during the carry phase, the more power he can produce in the thrust phase.

This knowledge is useful because it helps you in timing your aids and influencing the horse.

👉 EXAMPLE 1

During a leg-yield, the horse’s inside legs are required to step in front of and across his outside legs.

Therefore, if you apply your inside leg aid at the same precise moment as your horse lifts his inside hind leg (into the reach phase), then you can encourage the horse to step further under and across with that leg.

This will give you a greater degree of crossing during the leg-yield and a more sweeping stride.

👉 EXAMPLE 2

If you want to encourage your horse to take more weight behind, then apply your half-halt just as the horse’s inside hind leg is coming down to the ground (the carry phase).

At this moment, you can encourage your horse’s inside hind leg to take more weight.

👉 EXAMPLE 3

The horse’s canter stride starts with the horse’s outside hind leg. Therefore, to make a smooth transition from trot or walk into canter, apply your canter aids as your horse’s outside hind leg is in the reach phase.

This means that as that hind leg touches the ground (the carry phase), instead of it being another step of trot or walk, it will be the first step of canter.

This also encourages the horse to reach further under with that hind leg, producing a more uphill transition.

Give it a go!

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29/04/2025

🌿 Ride with Balance, Feel, and Connection – Centered Riding® Lessons Now Available! 🐎

Discover a new way to ride that focuses on harmony between horse and rider. Our Centered Riding® lessons help you develop awareness, balance, and softness — both in the saddle and on the ground.

Whether you're new to riding or an experienced equestrian, these lessons offer powerful tools to improve your position, communication, and confidence.

✨ What to expect:
✅ Improved posture and body awareness
✅ Clearer aids and communication with your horse
✅ Breathing and relaxation techniques
✅ A more mindful, connected approach to riding

Centered Riding® isn’t a discipline — it’s a way of riding that supports any style or level, from leisure riders to competitors.

📍Held at the peaceful Dark Deer Croft, or available as clinics and private sessions.

Ready to feel more connected in the saddle?
📩 DM us to book your session
📞 Call 07772884899
📧 Email [email protected]

Ride from the inside out – your horse will thank you. 🐴💚

29/04/2025

28/04/2025

🎓 Online BHS Stages Training – Learn from Anywhere! 🐴

Are you working towards your BHS Stage exams and need support with the theory?
We’re now offering online training sessions to help you prepare — wherever you are!

Whether you're studying for Stage 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 our online sessions are designed to boost your confidence and deepen your knowledge in a relaxed, supportive environment.

📘 What we cover:
✅ Anatomy & physiology
✅ Feeding, health & care
✅ Riding theory & coaching principles
✅ Exam technique and revision tips

💻 Join us from home — all you need is a stable internet connection and your passion for learning.

Led by experienced BHS-accredited trainers, our sessions can be booked 1:1 or in small groups.

📍Perfect for students, career changers, or anyone brushing up their knowledge!

Ready to level up your learning?
📩 DM us to book your spot or email [email protected]
📞 Call 07772884899

Let’s work towards your BHS goals — together!

28/04/2025

💥💥Forgandenny 2025💥💥

What can I say!? We had an absolute blast and loved every second. Kept waiting for the nerves and anxiety to kick in, but they never did. Just felt excited and on the ball the whole day.

Aregon travelled perfectly and arrived on top of the moon....he was so excited and thought this was all very intriguing. We walked the courses first thing and made our plan of action and then got him ready for the Dressage.

The grass suited him. He felt forward and keen but not rushing. Aiming for a score of 35, We did a lovely dressage test with an unfortunate flying change down the long side of canter landing us on a score of 37 which I was very pleased about.

Onto the Showjumping; he was in his element. Flying around the course with ease with little leg and Aregon enjoying every minute!! Lovely Clear round saw us remain on 37 and sitting in 12th of 84 riders. I couldn't have been more proud of us both.

Cross country next, which could have been our most daunting section, but both of us felt excited and up for the challenge. We flew around the first 11 fences without a hitch; ditches, rails, brushes, trakener, roll tops etc. He was in his element. However, number 12, the water that we always knew would be a sticking point became our downfall. On the edge of him about to go in, we were eliminated, which was unfortunate, but I was extremely pleased and proud of what we had accomplished at our first event.

So that's the focal point for the next weeks is getting Aregon feeling confident in water and realizing he can trust me and its fun!!

Thank you to everyone who has supported us in this journey and training and those who sent encouragement and support on the day. Special thank you to Alex Gray for grooming on the day and my husband Elias for looking after our son enabling me to do what I do and cheering us on from the sidelines!!

I am buzzing for the next event....watch this space!!

27/04/2025

The Importance of Regular Saddle Fitting 🐎

A well-fitting saddle is essential for your horse’s comfort, performance, and long-term soundness. An ill-fitting saddle can cause discomfort, behavioural issues, muscle atrophy, or even injury—no matter how experienced the rider.

Horses are constantly changing. Whether due to age, seasonal weight fluctuations, muscle development, or changes in workload, their shape is rarely static. This is why regular saddle checks are so important—what fit a few months ago may no longer be suitable today.

With my own horse, Aregon, I notice clear changes throughout the year depending on the level of work and turnout. As he builds or loses muscle, his shape shifts, and even small changes can affect how the saddle sits and moves with him.

To ensure he stays comfortable and supported, I work closely with Gammack’s Saddlery – Anne Marshall, and I can’t recommend her highly enough. She brings a wealth of knowledge, takes the time to assess the horse thoroughly, and always puts the horse's welfare first. I recommend having your saddle checked at least every 6 months, or more often if your horse is in intense work, growing, or recovering from injury.

A well-fitting saddle allows your horse to move freely, develop correctly, and enjoy their work—something we all want for our equine partners.

📩 Got questions about saddle fit or thinking your horse might need a check-up? Feel free to PM the page—always happy to chat.

27/04/2025

🐴 Going Away? Let Us Care for Your Horse Like They’re Our Own! 💚

Planning a holiday, weekend away, or just need an extra pair of hands?
We offer reliable, experienced horse sitting services to give you peace of mind while you're away.

At FG Equestrian, we know how important it is to leave your horse in safe, capable hands. Whether it’s daily care or full livery-style support, we tailor our services to suit your horse’s routine.

✨ Our horse sitting includes:
✅ Feeding, mucking out & rug changes
✅ Turnout & bringing in
✅ Medications & special care if needed
✅ Regular updates & check-ins for you

Available at your yard or for horses staying with us at Dark Deer Croft.

📅 Flexible availability – short- or long-term cover
🧡 Professional, trustworthy, and fully insured

📩 DM us to book or ask any questions
📞 Call 07772884899
📧 Email [email protected]

Take your break knowing your horse is in the best hands 🐎✨

26/04/2025

💪 Tailored Fitness Plans for Your Horse 🐎

Whether your horse is coming back into work, preparing for competition, or just needs to build strength and condition — we create custom fitness plans to suit their individual needs and goals.

At FG Equestrian, we take the time to understand your horse’s current level, temperament, and aspirations. No one-size-fits-all approach!

✨ What we offer:
✅ Structured weekly fitness routines
✅ Groundwork, polework, hill work & schooling
✅ Regular progress tracking
✅ Support for all levels – from happy hackers to competition horses

Fitness is about more than just exercise — it's about developing strength, balance, and confidence in a way that keeps your horse happy and sound.

📍Available Online for you to work at in your own location, we have the experience to help your horse become the best version of themselves.

Ready to get started?
📩 DM us or email [email protected]
📞 Call 07772884899

25/04/2025

Why Hip Health Matters for Riders 🏇

Hip health is a crucial—yet often overlooked—part of effective, comfortable riding. Your hips are the connection point between your upper and lower body in the saddle, directly impacting balance, stability, and how well you move with your horse.

🔹 Mobility = Better Feel
Supple hips allow you to follow the horse’s movement with ease, especially in sitting trot and canter. This creates a more stable, independent seat and a better connection with your horse.

🔹 Alignment & Balance
Tight or uneven hips often cause riders to twist, tip forward, or collapse through one side. Good hip mobility supports better posture, even weight distribution, and balance in the saddle.

🔹 Clearer Aids
Your hips help deliver subtle seat and leg aids. If your movement is restricted, aids can become unclear or ineffective—leading to miscommunication with the horse. Relaxed, stable hips help you ride with finesse.

🔹 Prevent Discomfort & Injury
Healthy hips reduce the risk of strain on the lower back, pelvis, and knees—common issues for riders with limited mobility or poor alignment.

Off-horse work like stretching, yoga, Pilates, or strength training can make a big difference to your position, comfort, and overall performance in the saddle.

Don’t wait until pain or imbalance sets in—investing in your own mobility benefits both you and your horse.

Here's a wee video of a set of exercises I use on a regular basis to help keep my hips mobile and strong

https://youtube.com/shorts/k9iXl9zKmkM?si=M_0umKm-mvGjG1tK

📩 Need help improving your rider fitness or want exercises to support your riding? PM the page—we’re happy to help!

24/04/2025

🐴 Does Your Horse Need Rehabilitation? We’re Here to Help!

At FG Equestrian, we understand how stressful it can be when your horse is recovering from injury, illness, or surgery. Whether they need post-operative care, controlled exercise programs, or just a safe and supportive environment to heal — we’ve got you covered.

✅ Custom rehab plans tailored to your vet’s instructions
✅ Daily monitoring by experienced staff
✅ Safe turnout and controlled exercise areas
✅ A calm, caring, and professional environment

We work closely with vets, physios, and farriers to ensure your horse gets the best care possible.

📍Located at the peaceful Dark Deer Croft, we offer a quiet, stress-free setting that promotes recovery and well-being.

If your horse needs some extra care to get back to full strength, get in touch today — we’re happy to discuss how we can support their journey back to health.

📩 DM us or email [email protected]
📞 Call 07772884899

23/04/2025

🧼🐴 Get Your Horse Ready with Professional Clipping Services! 🐴🧼

As the seasons change, keeping your horse comfortable and well-groomed is essential. At FG Equestrian, we offer professional horse clipping services to help your horse stay comfortable, healthy, and looking their best!

✨ What We Offer:
✅ Full & Trace Clipping – From full body clips to trace or blanket clips, we’ve got the right option for your horse’s needs
✅ Expert Grooming – Ensuring a clean, precise clip for a polished finish
✅ Comfortable for Your Horse – We clip with care, ensuring your horse stays calm throughout the process
✅ Season/Competition-Ready – Keep your horse at the perfect temperature for work and turnout all year round

Clipping not only helps with managing your horse's coat but can also improve comfort during exercise. Ready for your horse to look and feel their best?

💬 DM us for more details or to book your clipping session!
📍 [Insert location]
📅 Limited availability, so book early!

23/04/2025

🐴✨ Unlock the Future of Breeding with Our Artificial Insemination Services! ✨🐴

Looking to improve your breeding program or safely introduce superior genetics? Our Artificial Insemination (AI) services are here to help you achieve the results you’ve been aiming for.

✨ What We Offer:
✅ Expert AI Techniques – Ensuring precision and care when performing artificial insemination
✅ Access to Top Stallions – Choose from a wide selection of high-quality stallions to enhance your horse’s bloodlines
✅ Safety & Success – We prioritise your mare’s well-being with a safe, efficient process that increases the likelihood of successful breeding
✅ Full Support – From the initial consultation to post-procedure care, we’re here to guide you every step of the way

AI is a powerful tool for achieving the best possible breeding results. Let’s work together to help your breeding program reach its full potential!

💬 DM us to book a consultation or get more details on our AI services!
📍 Anywhere at your convenience
📅 Limited availability, so reach out today!

22/04/2025

🐴✨ It’s Never Too Late to Start Riding! ✨🐴

Are you an adult who’s always dreamed of learning to ride, or looking to improve your skills? At FG Equestrian, we offer Adult Riding Lessons in a friendly, supportive, and relaxed environment—no experience necessary!

🌿 Why Ride with Us?
✅ Lessons Tailored to Your Needs – Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning after a break, we’ll meet you where you are
✅ Friendly, Experienced Instructors – We are here to guide you every step of the way, helping you build confidence and technique
✅ Beautiful, Safe Riding Environment – Enjoy lessons on well-trained horses and safe, spacious facilities
✅ Focus on Fun & Progress – We believe in creating a stress-free environment where you can enjoy the journey and see real improvement

Don’t wait to live your equestrian dream! Whether it’s for fitness, fun, or developing a new skill, riding is for everyone—and we can’t wait to help you get started.

💬 DM us to book your first lesson!
📍 Dark Deer or with your own horse at your location
📅 Limited spaces available, so reach out today!