Real Riding

Perry Wood has spent a considerable number of years developing his unique approach to training horses and riders, blending the best of many sources, both traditional and cutting-edge. His philosophy is one of empathy and understanding towards the horse, lightness and communication, self-awareness in body and mind, classical principles, real results - and Real Riding. He has lived in Exmoor for the last twelve years, where he has bred and started young horses, run adult riding vacations and courses, and trained horses naturally and classically. He now teaches Real Riding at clinics in various locations, trains horses and riders, and coaches corporate executives in their leadership through intra-and inter-personal skills using horses to effect high-speed change.

Part 1: Horsework 1.Horses are totally amazing! 2.Nine ridiculously obvious facts about horses Part 2: Riderwork 3.True balance: standing up with a horse between your legs! 4.Legs, legs, legs 5.Hands, fist, elbow and wrist 6.Contact - and the million-dollar question 7.Is it a bird, is it a plane, or is it an aid? 8.Go, stop and changing gear 9.Effective steering Part 3: Mindwork 10.Positive attitude 11.Developing infinite patience 12.Using role models 13.Visualisation and imagination 14.Confidence and nerves 15.Beyond the mind: the state of true 'being' with horses Part 4: Partnership Work 16.The three paces 17.School figures: how and why never to find them boring! 18.To be or not to be 'on the bit' 19.Taking lessons 20.Sideways movements 21.'The magic tool' : inside leg to outside hand 22.Creative experimentation Part 5: Horsemanship Work 23.Aspects of safety - for the rider 24.The horse's safety 25.Basics revisited: leading, tacking up and mounting 26.Crisis management 27.Freedom, fun and fresh air