October 2024 Issue

EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN October 2024 Page 13 Kendra Clarke, located Frenchtown, NJ, is one of few people in the USA offering lessons on a Racewood Eventing Riding Simulator and since July, the only Racewood certified trainer in the USA. Recently returned from England, she offers lessons on a Racewood Eventing Simulator. Lessons focus on rider biomechanics with the use of Franklin Method Equestrian/ Train Your Seat methods. Lessons and workshops cater to any level and discipline as the simulator (known as "Blue") is capable of jumping stadium and cross coun- try, as well as all the Grand Prix dressage moves. ‘Blue’ doesn't spook, buck, trip or slip in any unexpected antics. She also has countless sensors to measure rein pressure, seat imbalances, leg pressure and many other factors a rider puts on their horse. Blue helps riders realize where their bodies are and with the help of the instructor, find the new positions while seeing mea- surable live feedback on one to three screens. This includes but is not limited to challenges in hips, ribs, jumping position, steering and more. Blue also helps with confi- dence. Kendra has helped riders with fear challenges in regard to "unpredictability" of their horse by controlling Blue remotely, changing in and out of different gaits, while the rider has to stay soft and following. Riders can gain strength, as Blue can jump an endless gymnas- tic line without getting tired, allow- ing the rider to feel consistency and work on jumping position without the worry of riding the perfect dis- tance. Blue has many jump settings that can work on distances as well as steering to jumps. Kendra utilizes Franklin Method balls and bands, and can touch and hold body parts, which is especially useful in the canter and jumping, which on a real horse is impossible. Riders can put their hands in spots without the worry of a horse tripping and can do lots of work with their eyes closed. Check out the program at kclarkequine.com. Train on an Eventing Simulator in New Jersey Like what you see? Subscribe today to East Coast Equestrian!