For Riders – Sacred Connections Equestrian

What Defines a Good Rider?

The truth is . . .

It’s not ribbons in the show ring

It’s not riding bitless or bridleless

It’s not piaffe, passage or a big jump course

It’s not liberty tricks in the sandbox

Today’s riders are told they need everything from core building exercises, yoga and
meditation, to football-inspired shuttle runs to get “in shape.” We’re overwhelmed by
online “experts” talking about rider biomechanics, core development, gadgets to hold us in the saddle, and tools to keep our hands still.

Everyone seems to have a different opinion or some special, “new tips” that never
really seem to help riders feel safe, reach their goals or feel the freedom and connection
riding should inspire.

End the frustrating hours of endless circles trying to get your heels down or your horse
in “a frame,” and discover the four simple basics the The Authentic Forward Riding System includes creating competent, capable riders that didn’t hurt their horses.

4 Basics of a Good Rider:

Non-interference

Communication the horse can understand

Non abuse of the horse by the rider’s seat, hands or legs

Never over facing the horse

Sacred Connections Equestrian clears away all the confusion and disinformation by following a system of riding and training proven to be the most effective and easiest-to-
learn throughout the history of riding—without hurting the horses.

Using this proven system, it typically takes only a few months for you to be enjoying
your horse, both inside and outside the ring—and most important—without hurting your horse.

Through this proven, systematic approach, SCE helps you become the confident,
effective rider you always dreamed of being. With the ability to allow your horse the
freedom to move well, you can support your horse’s health and soundness for a lifetime
of fun, loving, soul-inspiring rides together.

Originally Developed to help riders achieve more sooner—without
hurting their horses—this SCE comprehensive, step-by-step system makes riding easier
for riders to understand and achieve the following in each phase:

The Non-Interfering System

Phase 1: Non-Interfering

For the everyday rider who just wants to enjoy her horse.

Phase 1 is about developing a highly functional position that reduces risk and helps you

feel bold and confident, while enjoying many fun adventures with your horse. This
phase focuses on clear, definite communication and non-interference of your horse’s
natural movement and balance. Ideal for trail riding, low jumping, second flight
foxhunting and low level competition.

Phase 2: Cooperative

For the rider who wants a little more communication, connection and performance.

This phase focuses on using give and take to create soft, definite communication and

cooperation between you and your horse. Your legs and hands work in cooperation with
your horse’s natural movement and balance. Ideal for those who want to feel confident
on more challenging trail rides, first flight foxhunting, endurance riding, intermediate
level jumping, historical cavalry reenacting, mid-level competition, and much more.

Phase 3: Influencing

For the rider who wants it all.

In Phase 3 you can develop the skills to gently and compassionately influence your

horse’s quality of performance through excellence in balance, movement and mutual,
two-way communication. Includes working on the bit, semi-collection, flexions and a
higher level of engagement in your horse. This phase is ideal for riders wanting an even
deeper, more focused bond with their horses, higher level competition, professional
riding and training, and/or specializations such as high level dressage, show jumping,
and more.

Make Riding Easier for you and your Horse

“Since starting this system with Catherine, I’ve learned the value of clear, consistent communication with my horses. I have felt their physical capabilities develop and my own confidence increase. I never lose my stirrups anymore.”

Audrey S.

Because individual circumstances may vary, no guarantees are made regarding the information contained in this website. Sacred Connections Equestrian, LLC, staff, officers, instructors, employees, representatives, and others acting on behalf of Sacred Connections Equestrian, LLC, make no guarantees concerning the level of success you may experience by following the advice and strategies contained in this website, and you accept the risk that results will differ for each individual. The information provided is in no way intended to diagnose or treat any health, soundness, nutrition or other imbalances. It is recommended a qualified equine practitioner be consulted for any questions regarding the horse’s health.