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Centered Riding® is a method of teaching and learning riding which addresses how the rider’s mind affects the body, and how both interact with the horse. It stresses good use of the body in horse and rider, making riding more balanced, athletic, and less stressful for both horse and rider. Centered Riding uses a knowledge of equine and human anatomy, balance and movement along with body awareness methods, the mind-body connection, mental imagery, and techniques from Tai Chi, the Alexander Technique, and sport psychology. These methods, adapted to the needs and desires of each individual, can help riders work in balance and harmony with their horses, to achieve their athletic best, and to make riding a safer, more enjoyable lifelong pastime for all.
Originally developed by Sally Swift, Centered Riding is used by riders of all ages, levels and riding interests, from beginners, pleasure riders and therapeutic riders to trainers, instructors and Olympic competitors, and is taught by Centered Riding instructors around the world.Basic Principles of Centered Riding include:
• Soft Eyes: relaxed, "wide-angle" vision opens the rider’s sense of "feel" and body awareness as well as providing direction and a wider field of vision.
• Breathing: using the diaphragm and breathing deeply and naturally enables better balance, posture and athletic ability, and can be used to release tension, gather energy, and influence the horse.
• Centering: becoming aware of the center of balance, movement and power located deep in the body.
• Grounding: the rider’s feeling of balance, stability and security in relation to the ground and to his horse.
• Balance: the rider’s balance is dynamic (balance in motion), and united with the horse; the body is balanced and free to move easily and naturally.
• Clear intent: involves the rider’s direction, focus and thought process; it can help with clarity, communication, and confidence.
Susan Harris and Peggy Brown are Centered Riding Instructor/Clinicians who have both worked extensively with Sally Swift. They give Centered Riding clinics, workshops, lectures and demonstrations, including Open Centered Riding Clinics (Introduction to Centered Riding, Continuing Centered Riding, & Centered Riding for specific disciplines such as Centered Jumping, Dressage, Western, Saddle Seat, Distance Riding, etc.), Centered Riding Instructor Courses, and Centered Riding Instructor Update Clinics across North America and around the world. They work with adults and children at all levels, including Pony Clubs.
Peggy Brown also teaches Centered Driving, applying the principles of Centered Riding to carriage, pleasure and competition driving. For more information on Centered Driving lessons, demonstrations or clinics, please click on the link below.
Booking a Centered Riding Clinic
Booking a Centered Driving Clinic