What is Equipilates™?Feeling wonky or stiff?
Do your stirrups always feel unlevel? Riding on one rein is much more tricky than the other? One particular movement a battle on every horse you ride? Sitting trot a struggle? Want to look and feel more elegant and in harmony with your horse? If the answer to any of these is yes,
|
|
The Equipilates™ Advantage
Equipilates™ combines precision biomechanical screening with targeted movement, imagery, and touch to help you ride better. Using riding-specific exercises and sensory engagement, we improve your symmetry, shock absorption, and “feel.”so your horse moves more freely, responds more willingly, and performs at their best.
Equipilates™ combines precision biomechanical screening with targeted movement, imagery, and touch to help you ride better. Using riding-specific exercises and sensory engagement, we improve your symmetry, shock absorption, and “feel.”so your horse moves more freely, responds more willingly, and performs at their best.
Why It Matters
Your position directly affects your horse’s movement. Dynamic alignment shapes everything—from leg placement to the effectiveness of a half halt. If your core or connected muscles are tight, overactive, or imbalanced, it impacts how you absorb your horse’s movement, blocking thrust from his hindquarters and affecting his performance.
Why Riders Choose Equipilates™:
Even slight asymmetries in weight distribution or mobility influence your horse, often without you realising. Uneven loading or difficulty moving one way can subtly direct your horse’s motion. Many riders invest heavily in physio, chiropractic care, or saddle adjustments—but the full benefit depends on how you ride. Equipilates™ ensures your body functions optimally, supporting your horse’s training and wellbeing.
• Refine your position – balanced, coordinated, and organised riding; targeting your seat and your aids
• Enhance your horse’s way of going – freer, more supple, and confident movement
• Create lasting progress – exercises and techniques that address the root cause of issues, not just the symptoms
Why Riders Get Stuck
Trainers can struggle to correct positions if the root cause isn’t addressed. Riders often repeat the same issues for years. Understanding human anatomy, movement patterns, and how your body interacts with your horse is key—and that’s exactly what Equipilates™ delivers.
Horses Matter Too
Horses have their own alignment patterns, which may mirror or differ from yours. Lindsay’s dual expertise as a dressage trainer and movement therapist allows her to guide corrective exercises for your horse, improving posture, flexibility, and spinal alignment—making it easier for you to maintain your position.
At HQ, we use Martha, our mechanical horse, and a fully equipped Pilates studio to identify whether issues come from rider, horse, or both—so you can train smarter, together.
Your position directly affects your horse’s movement. Dynamic alignment shapes everything—from leg placement to the effectiveness of a half halt. If your core or connected muscles are tight, overactive, or imbalanced, it impacts how you absorb your horse’s movement, blocking thrust from his hindquarters and affecting his performance.
Why Riders Choose Equipilates™:
Even slight asymmetries in weight distribution or mobility influence your horse, often without you realising. Uneven loading or difficulty moving one way can subtly direct your horse’s motion. Many riders invest heavily in physio, chiropractic care, or saddle adjustments—but the full benefit depends on how you ride. Equipilates™ ensures your body functions optimally, supporting your horse’s training and wellbeing.
• Refine your position – balanced, coordinated, and organised riding; targeting your seat and your aids
• Enhance your horse’s way of going – freer, more supple, and confident movement
• Create lasting progress – exercises and techniques that address the root cause of issues, not just the symptoms
Why Riders Get Stuck
Trainers can struggle to correct positions if the root cause isn’t addressed. Riders often repeat the same issues for years. Understanding human anatomy, movement patterns, and how your body interacts with your horse is key—and that’s exactly what Equipilates™ delivers.
Horses Matter Too
Horses have their own alignment patterns, which may mirror or differ from yours. Lindsay’s dual expertise as a dressage trainer and movement therapist allows her to guide corrective exercises for your horse, improving posture, flexibility, and spinal alignment—making it easier for you to maintain your position.
At HQ, we use Martha, our mechanical horse, and a fully equipped Pilates studio to identify whether issues come from rider, horse, or both—so you can train smarter, together.
At Equipilates™ HQ , we specialise in refined rider biomechanics for dressage performance, rehabilitation, and return-to-riding.
Here at HQ, studio sessions offer a considered, evidence-led approach to rider biomechanics, designed for dressage riders in the quest for peak performance, those returning to riding after injury or time away and riders looking to ensure they're in the best balance possible for their horses. Working with mechanical horse technology allows precise analysis, measured adjustment, and thoughtful retraining of the rider’s body — without the fatigue or the complexity of working with a live horse.
This is meticulous, intelligent work that supports correct influence, ease of movement, and long-term riding sustainability.
The value of studio biomechanics
The controlled, repeatable movement of the mechanical horse provides an exceptional environment for understanding how the rider truly sits, moves, and organises their body. This clarity makes studio work particularly effective for:
• Refining classical dressage position and alignment
• Improving symmetry, straightness, and balance
• Developing a stable, independent seat
• Addressing tension, restriction, and compensatory patterns
• Supporting rehabilitation and a safe return to riding
• Improving consistency, coordination, and clarity of aids
By removing unpredictability, sessions can focus entirely on the rider — creating changes that translate clearly into ridden work.
What to expect from a studio session
Each session allows space for understanding and is shaped around the individual rider. Depending on your needs, it may include:
• Detailed static and dynamic rider biomechanics assessment
• Postural and alignment analysis relevant to dressage riding
• Mechanical horse work to integrate corrections under movement
• Pilates Reformer exercises to support core stability, alignment, and symmetry
• Targeted off-horse exercises to support change
• Breath, coordination, and core strategies
• Clear, realistic focus points to take back into your riding
The emphasis is on quality, understanding, and lasting improvement — not quick fixes.
Studio Sessions & Pricing
Rider Reset — 45 minutes (£55)
A focused studio session using the mechanical horse and pelvis-specific biomechanics assessment offering clear insight into how your body is functioning in the saddle, with immediate, practical adjustments to improve alignment and control.
Well suited to riders who:
• Feel uneven, restricted, or disconnected in their riding
• Want a professional check-in on position and symmetry
• Are new to biomechanics-led rider development
• Are cautiously returning to riding after a break or minor injury
You will leave with clarity and a small number of precise changes to apply straight away.
Bespoke Biomechanics in Balance — 90 minutes (£115)
A comprehensive, in-depth studio experience for riders seeking a deeper understanding of their biomechanics and a more complete reset. This session includes integration of Pilates Reformer work to develop core stability, alignment, and symmetry alongside mechanical horse training.
This session includes:
• Full rider biomechanics assessment
• Extended mechanical horse work
• Pilates Reformer exercises to support postural and muscular balance
• Off-horse corrective and restorative exercises
• Careful integration of changes through movement
• Personalised email follow-up with exercises and clear focus points
Particularly recommended for:
• Dressage riders working with established movement patterns or asymmetries
• Rehabilitation and injury-aware retraining
• Riders returning after surgery or significant time off
• Those who prefer a thorough, analytical approach
Rehabilitation & return-to-riding support
Studio biomechanics sessions are especially valuable during rehabilitation or when rebuilding confidence after injury. The mechanical horse allows controlled, predictable movement, enabling riders to:
• Reconnect with their seat safely
• Restore symmetry and coordination
• Address protective or guarded movement patterns
• Progress thoughtfully and at an appropriate pace
Sessions are adapted carefully to your injury history, stage of recovery, and personal goals.
Dressage-focused rider development
For dressage riders, correct rider biomechanics underpin every aspect of training. Studio work supports:
• Quieter, more consistent aids
• Improved straightness and balance through the rider’s body
• Greater stability in transitions and lateral work
• Reduced physical strain within the rider over time
This work complements classical training and current equitation science knowledge, and supports longevity rather than short-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this only for competitive dressage riders?
No. While the work is grounded in dressage performance principles, sessions are suitable for riders at all levels.
Will studio work translate into my ridden work?
Yes. The aim is always clear, transferable change that improves how you ride.
Is this appropriate if I’m injured or returning to riding?
Yes. Sessions are adapted to your current capacity and rehabilitation stage.
Which session should I choose?
The Rider Reset offers a focused introduction or refinement. The Bespoke session is best for rehabilitation, ongoing issues, or riders wanting a more in depth exploration of biomechanics.
Booking
Studio biomechanics sessions are offered by appointment.
If you are unsure which session is most appropriate, I am happy to advise.
Book your session or get in touch to discuss your goals and suitability.
Here at HQ, studio sessions offer a considered, evidence-led approach to rider biomechanics, designed for dressage riders in the quest for peak performance, those returning to riding after injury or time away and riders looking to ensure they're in the best balance possible for their horses. Working with mechanical horse technology allows precise analysis, measured adjustment, and thoughtful retraining of the rider’s body — without the fatigue or the complexity of working with a live horse.
This is meticulous, intelligent work that supports correct influence, ease of movement, and long-term riding sustainability.
The value of studio biomechanics
The controlled, repeatable movement of the mechanical horse provides an exceptional environment for understanding how the rider truly sits, moves, and organises their body. This clarity makes studio work particularly effective for:
• Refining classical dressage position and alignment
• Improving symmetry, straightness, and balance
• Developing a stable, independent seat
• Addressing tension, restriction, and compensatory patterns
• Supporting rehabilitation and a safe return to riding
• Improving consistency, coordination, and clarity of aids
By removing unpredictability, sessions can focus entirely on the rider — creating changes that translate clearly into ridden work.
What to expect from a studio session
Each session allows space for understanding and is shaped around the individual rider. Depending on your needs, it may include:
• Detailed static and dynamic rider biomechanics assessment
• Postural and alignment analysis relevant to dressage riding
• Mechanical horse work to integrate corrections under movement
• Pilates Reformer exercises to support core stability, alignment, and symmetry
• Targeted off-horse exercises to support change
• Breath, coordination, and core strategies
• Clear, realistic focus points to take back into your riding
The emphasis is on quality, understanding, and lasting improvement — not quick fixes.
Studio Sessions & Pricing
Rider Reset — 45 minutes (£55)
A focused studio session using the mechanical horse and pelvis-specific biomechanics assessment offering clear insight into how your body is functioning in the saddle, with immediate, practical adjustments to improve alignment and control.
Well suited to riders who:
• Feel uneven, restricted, or disconnected in their riding
• Want a professional check-in on position and symmetry
• Are new to biomechanics-led rider development
• Are cautiously returning to riding after a break or minor injury
You will leave with clarity and a small number of precise changes to apply straight away.
Bespoke Biomechanics in Balance — 90 minutes (£115)
A comprehensive, in-depth studio experience for riders seeking a deeper understanding of their biomechanics and a more complete reset. This session includes integration of Pilates Reformer work to develop core stability, alignment, and symmetry alongside mechanical horse training.
This session includes:
• Full rider biomechanics assessment
• Extended mechanical horse work
• Pilates Reformer exercises to support postural and muscular balance
• Off-horse corrective and restorative exercises
• Careful integration of changes through movement
• Personalised email follow-up with exercises and clear focus points
Particularly recommended for:
• Dressage riders working with established movement patterns or asymmetries
• Rehabilitation and injury-aware retraining
• Riders returning after surgery or significant time off
• Those who prefer a thorough, analytical approach
Rehabilitation & return-to-riding support
Studio biomechanics sessions are especially valuable during rehabilitation or when rebuilding confidence after injury. The mechanical horse allows controlled, predictable movement, enabling riders to:
• Reconnect with their seat safely
• Restore symmetry and coordination
• Address protective or guarded movement patterns
• Progress thoughtfully and at an appropriate pace
Sessions are adapted carefully to your injury history, stage of recovery, and personal goals.
Dressage-focused rider development
For dressage riders, correct rider biomechanics underpin every aspect of training. Studio work supports:
• Quieter, more consistent aids
• Improved straightness and balance through the rider’s body
• Greater stability in transitions and lateral work
• Reduced physical strain within the rider over time
This work complements classical training and current equitation science knowledge, and supports longevity rather than short-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this only for competitive dressage riders?
No. While the work is grounded in dressage performance principles, sessions are suitable for riders at all levels.
Will studio work translate into my ridden work?
Yes. The aim is always clear, transferable change that improves how you ride.
Is this appropriate if I’m injured or returning to riding?
Yes. Sessions are adapted to your current capacity and rehabilitation stage.
Which session should I choose?
The Rider Reset offers a focused introduction or refinement. The Bespoke session is best for rehabilitation, ongoing issues, or riders wanting a more in depth exploration of biomechanics.
Booking
Studio biomechanics sessions are offered by appointment.
If you are unsure which session is most appropriate, I am happy to advise.
Book your session or get in touch to discuss your goals and suitability.
At a glance
• Rider Reset (45 minutes) — £55
• Bespoke Biomechanics in Balance (90 minutes) — £115 (includes personalised email follow-up)
Thoughtful precision. Measurable progress. Confident, comfortable riding.
Improving rider alignment improves the horse's way of going |
|
|
Rider tuition takes place either with me, Lindsay Wilcox-Reid at Equipilates™ HQ in Ripley, Derbyshire as detailed below, or with one of her regional, qualified Equipilates™ members, located throughout the UK and worldwide. Contact each trainer directly to find out the different types of tuition format they can offer you.
Work with me-
|
Work with me-
|
Intensive training breaks here at HQ |
|
I work with clients of all levels individually for sports performance and rehabilitation in the Equipilates™ Performance Studio using the mechanical horse, large Pilates apparatus and a variety of biomechanical screening and movement therapy techniques. Regular mechanical horse clinic dates throughout the year
Work with me one to one |
I specialise in improving the horse's biomechanics, as well as the rider's! I'm a dressage rider and trainer, and can help you with groundwork and exercises under saddle to help your horse feel more supple, straighter and stronger, as well as rider-position focused training Training on site and clinics available
Click here to find out more |
Give your training a real boost with a Biomechanics in Balance stayover- four private sessions over two days, including initial ridden lesson, studio session to work on you, a groundwork session for your horse, final ridden session to put everything together and overnight stabling.
Click here for more info |
