Kendra Clarke (Horse and Rider Biomechanics) – is a Level 2 Centered Riding instructor and a licensed Franklin Method Equestrian Level 1 Pelvic, Leg and Spine trainer (1 of four trainers in the US with these certifications), specializing in horse and rider biomechanics. Kendra has trained in many disciplines with her main focus being dressage under the watchful eyes of numerous FEI and Olympic level trainers. Kendra brings this knowledge to all disciplines (including jumping and western) to promote proper and effective biomechanics for the rider’s enhanced communication with the horse, and to promote comfort and longevity of the horse. Kendra hopes to promote soundness and longevity in both horses and riders so that any athlete at any level can have a long fulfilling career.

What does a clinic focus on?
Kendra’s clinics are unique in that she starts by just watching the riders on their own, riding as if Kendra is not there. Kendra looks to see what is or is not moving in the rider’s body, and how the horse is moving. From there Kendra asks what the rider has been feeling or struggling with during their riding. These may be exercises that suddenly became challenging, things that their trainer is saying over and over again but just not clicking, or new exercises that seem daunting. Kendra then discusses what she saw in the rider’s movement (or lack of movement) to show why things have been challenging and move onto exercises that will reprogram the rider’s habits and move towards new feelings and patterns, and therefore progress the training along. Kendra brings a large array of tools that teach feelings and move the rider’s body in new ways that verbal cueing alone cannot do. This style of teaching applies to all levels and disciplines, including but not limited to lessons over fences, advanced dressage movements, western riding, kids at any level, recreational adults, fox hunters, etc. A saddle is helpful and encouraged but Kendra has even taught bareback lessons at clinics before!

Why should I attend a clinic?
Kendra brings in a unique perspective that helps riders work through goals that their current trainers are working on, but may need a different take on it. Kendra looks to be seen as a tutor that comes in to fill in a hole in the training, and then let you continue on your path. An example of this is commonly the posting trot, such as a rider who has a lower leg that is moving too much and not as effective as it could be. Kendra works through exercises to change the habit that then allows the current trainer to continue building off of. Kendra encourages an open discussion with trainers as they are the ones who see the riders more and will help to continue the change in habits. Another example of this is hunter/jumpers. Kendra has experience jumping but it is not her personal focus to know the ins and outs of showing on the circuit, so Kendra can help with a challenge such as to stabilize a jumping position that allows a rider to be stronger over fences that the trainer can then help the rider progress up the levels and utilize their expertise. Kendra hopes to help trainers alongside the clients.

Other Information
Participating horses must have negative coggins and proof of vaccination. Thorncroft horses are not available for use. Stabling not available.