In-Person - Rider Biomechanics: an Evidence Based and Applied Approach
Saturday 24th May 2025 09:00 - 16:30 HRS BST
Rider Biomechanics: an Evidence Based and Applied Approach with Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire
Address: Centaur Biomechanic Training and Research, Dunstaffanage House, Moreton Morrell, Warwickshire, CV35 9BD
Time: 09:30 – 16:30 HRS BST
Rider biomechanics is a complex and multifaceted area. To genuinely support riders in becoming more aware, biomechanically efficient, and capable of riding with optimal form, it’s essential to assess the rider as a whole. All too often, riders are given generic instructions like “sit up” or “put your heels down.” But from a biomechanical perspective, what movement patterns do these cues actually trigger? And are they even achievable without taking the entire body into account?
This course combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on sessions. It’s designed for coaches, saddle fitters, therapists, and equine professionals who work with or assess riders, and are looking to deepen their understanding of rider biomechanics.
Theory
· Why is rider biomechanics important?
· A segmental approach to improving the biomechanics of the rider.
· What does a rider biomechanics screening look like – is it just mechanical?
Practical
· Assessing the rider off horse – an evidence based and applied approach.
· Pilates based gym ball exercises to help improve rider pelvic mechanics.
· Horse-saddle-rider interaction.
Location:
The course will be held at Dunstaffanage House, the home of Centaur Biomechanics, in their newly constructed studio. This state-of-the-art space is equipped with a force plate, gym balls, a motion capture system, and a range of additional tools designed to enhance learning and deepen understanding throughout the course.
Cost:
£150 plus VAT
Spaces are limited to allow for a more hands on and interactive experience.
Notes:
Refreshments are provided; however lunch is not included. The nearest shops are 10-minutes from Dunstaffanage House. It is advised to bring your own lunch.
The practical session will involve being in an arena with a horse and rider, please ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and clothing for standing in an arena.
Dr. Russell MacKechnie-Guire
Russell MacKechnie-Guire graduated from Warwickshire College in 2006 with a BSc (Hons) in Equine and Human Sports Science and now holds a PhD in Equine Biomechanics, graduating from the Royal Veterinary College in 2019. Russell’s thesis was titled ‘The Relationship between Saddle and Rider Kinematics, Equine Locomotion, and Thoracolumbar Pressures in Sports Horses’. Russell is based at Centaur Biomechanics, a company which he founded in 2006. He has extensively researched the effect that tack (saddle, bridle and girth) has on equine health and performance. Russell’s current area of research is horse-saddle-rider interaction, spinal kinematics in horses when ridden over ground and the effect that rider asymmetry has on equine back movement. In addition, Russell collaborates with researchers from around the world on various research projects associated with equine health and performance. He regularly presents his work at international meetings throughout the world and is a consultant for the British Equestrian Federations World Class, Team GBR programme. Russell is a member of the Team GBR’s Scientific Advisory Group, Society of Master Saddlers Scientific Advisory Group and chairs the horse+rider subgroup, part of the International Task force on Laterality in Sports Horses.
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