What We Offer
The Arrow Equestrian Centre is a quiet haven where the high standards of Classical Riding are promoted and maintained alongside a range of complementary techniques and therapies.
Sue specialises in lessons on the lunge and the Equine Simulator, working on the rider's position and the correct application of the aids. Even the most experienced rider will benefit from this work but once the basics have been mastered, riders will also benefit from working independently on a horse suitable to their level of experience.
Lessons both on the flat and over jumps are usually on a one-to-one basis with many clients choosing to stay for several days taking 2 - 4 lessons a day. Riders are encouraged to participate in all aspects of horsemanship and as a result, many "regulars" build a strong rapport with their "favourite" horse(s).
The Lessons
The Rider
Listening to the horse with your eyes, ears, body and heart is the first step to Classical Riding. To “listen” one must first learn to be “quiet” and this is only possible through a correctly balanced seat. At Arrow you will learn how to master the core skills of body awareness, balance and control so that you can ride with feel and sensitivity.
The rider has the biggest influence on the horse and Arrow Equestrian encourages all riders to work on themselves both on and off the horse. Often when we resolve problems in our own bodies, the perceived problems in the horse "miraculously" disappear.
To quote Erik Herbermann, "The horse already knows how to be a horse: the task of horsemanship lies entirely with the rider."
The Horses
"Blackberry" the Equine Simulator
A fantastic addition to the Arrow stables is a custom made Racewood Equine Simulator. This model has three speeds and is at a convenient height for "hands on" rider corrections. There are 4 cameras connected to a TV screen so riders can see themselves from every angle. Position corrections can be achieved in a relatively short time and practiced at length without tiring the horse. The leg and rein sensors teach finesse and the realistic movement builds confidence, suppleness and balance.
Another useful feature is its "lateral wobble" which responds to the rider's shift in weight. This enables the rider to simulate left and right lead in canter and to practice weight aids - an essential skill for any rider. All this in the relative security of a warm room!
The Arrow schoolmasters play a key role in helping riders develop this correct "feel" for what is right and will enable students to experience the more advanced movements - from leg yield to half pass, pirouettes to piaffe.
Whether you are a novice rider or have been riding for years, we have a horse that will help you to understand the simplicity and clarity of classical riding.
Your Horse
Your horse will also benefit from what Arrow has to offer, initially because he/she will appreciate your improved riding skills.
However, students who bring their own horse with them enjoy the added benefit of working together with the Arrow teachers. Team work and work in hand is an excellent way of improving trust and confidence between horse and rider and Arrow Equestrian is one of the few places to combine this work with true Classical Riding.
PRIVATE ARROW COURSES
Courses can be tailor made for individuals and small groups with or without your own horse(s). Most riders prefer to book a "mini break" of 2 to 4 days to make the most of the opportunities offered.
Programmes can include:
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Improving position and aiding
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Lunge lessons
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Ground work and work in hand
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An introduction to lateral work
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Working towards more advanced work
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Body awareness
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Video feedback
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Dismounted work and theory
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Equine Simulator Biomechanics Lessons
The Facilities
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The indoor school is approx 50m X 20m with extensive mirrors, a gallery and an excellent sound system.
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There is ample hard parking and stabling for visiting clients and their horses.
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The 4 self-catering accommodation units are finished to a very high standard and provide everything you could want for a relaxing break.
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There is a therapy room which is a quiet, open space for floor work, therapies, dismounted teaching sessions and lectures.
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The library provides an area where you can browse through the large number of books, DVDs and videos or just chat, make a cup of tea or share a meal or a glass of wine with friends.
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And after a hard days riding, where better to relax than in the spa letting the heat of the sauna or the bubbles of the hot tub soothe away any aches and pains.
We have designed the facilities especially for individuals and small groups to enjoy an equestrian mini break, away from the stresses of work and home so that they can indulge their passion for all things horsey in a relaxed and harmonious environment.
Single or shared on site S/C accommodation is available in beautifully converted, fully equipped barns and there is an on site spa, library and exercise/therapy room.
To book click here
