The Racewood Dressage Simulator is the only one in the North Island of New Zealand. Made in England, this highly specialised piece of equipment is the size of a real horse and gives real-time feedback to the rider on their weight distribution, leg pressure and rein tension via sensors. The horse can be ridden through the gaits and rider symmetry is shown on the computer screen in front. You can even ride a dressage test in the arena and practice flying changes, half pass, piaffe and passage, so you can practice all the movements to be a Grand Prix rider!!!

IDENTIFYING ASYMMETRIES & SUPPORTING REHABILITATION

Not only can the simulator be used to help identify and strengthen riders with functional asymmetries, it can also be used for post surgical rehabilitation such as after hip and knee surgery, concussions, and even people with special needs and RDA riders. 

COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT & CUSTOMISED STRENGTH PROGRAMME

A comprehensive assessment can be carried out to evaluate the rider's issues and then a customised strength programme is designed and delivered. Follow-up sessions and progressions are carried out to ensure the rider is on the right track and improving correctly. These applications can then be taken real time where the rider is on their own horse, working on their issues, which can be more complex as the horse's body and locomotion will add further challenges. This is a unique system in New Zealand where not only dressage riders can benefit, but those in all disciplines as effective flat work is essential to optimise equine performance.