Frequently asked questions about our horse simulator

Who is the equine simulator for?

Some people think it's only useful for beginners, while others believe it's specifically for advanced riders. The truth is, this tool is extremely helpful for all riders. We work differently with each type of client and according to the personal goals of each rider.

Examples of what we regularly work on:

Initiation: Mounting and dismounting safely, holding the reins correctly, basic vocabulary, introduction to aids, arena conventions, basic gaits, rising trot, emergency stop, etc.

Beginner: Balance, independence of hands (contact), rising trot, sitting trot, two-point contact, independence of legs (canter departure), activation of abdominal muscles & trunk stability, role of the pelvis, etc. Dressage arena. Infinite jumping line and courses (3 levels).

Intermediate: Dissociation of aids, coordination, balance (on the flat and over fences), proprioception in the seat (separating the sit bones), precision, analysis & correction of symmetry with instant feedback, absorption of movement in the joints, optimization of transitions, etc. Use of videos and various tools such as Franklin balls, elastics, weights, Equicube, Equisk gloves, etc. Dressage arena. Infinite jumping line and courses (3 levels).

Advanced: More specific work on lateral exercises. Analysis based on problems experienced while riding. Bridging what is observed on the simulator and what is experienced while riding. For example, is the flying change harder on one side? Are the hips turning outward on one particular rein? Is the sitting trot absorbed in the cervical region by the rider? Does an old ankle fracture affect movement absorption, causing asymmetry? Training with weights over jumps, creating imbalance and analyzing compensations over the obstacle. Use of videos and various tools such as Franklin balls, elastics, weights, Equicube, Equisk gloves, etc. Dressage arena. Infinite jumping line and courses (3 levels).

What are the most common problems?

Anterior pelvic tilt, posterior pelvic tilt, blocked hips, unstable contact, straight legs, knees tight, heels/ankles in hyperextension toward the ground, trunk asymmetry, uneven seat in the saddle, uneven mobility in the pelvis, pelvis at an angle (uneven legs), inadequate saddle, legs in front, inactive abdominal muscles, posture problems (related to driving, work, etc.), fear reflex (curving inward), elbows popping out over the jumps, anticipation of the jump, excessive leaning over the jump, asymmetry over the jump, hitting the saddle on landing, lack of leg independence for lateral work or canter departure, lack of balance in rising trot or two-point, rigidity, transitions with hands before the seat, etc.

For which disciplines?

The basic principle is the same regardless of discipline: a human on a horse must be balanced and help their mount perform. To do this, their body must absorb the forces the horse sends them. We therefore adapt according to each discipline. For example, we train riders in classical dressage, jumping (hunter, jumper, cross-country), reining, barrel racing, ranch riding, trail riding, etc.

What information is provided?

The simulator is equipped with detectors for contact, legs, and seat. There are four air cushions under the saddle that reflect the rider’s positioning with precision. This allows us to gather information about the rider's weight, whether on the flat, during a course, or over each jump. Below are the analysis details. There are also endless jumping lines, courses, and dressage arenas.

Session with one of our trainers

Explanation of the simulator’s operation and the content of the position analysis screen

Position analysis, video recording, and production of the position report

Definition of the lesson plan based on position analysis and rider’s goals

Exercises on the simulator using various screens, tools, and videos (some ground exercises may also be proposed). The goal is to feel the corrections to be made by receiving instant feedback on the screen.

Notes are taken throughout the lesson and provided at the end.

An electronic file is kept to ensure relevant follow-up for the next session.

Justification of Fees

Some find our fees high, others do not. Often, before coming for the first time, people perceive them as expensive, and later, they tell us it’s truly worth the cost. In fact, we have a very high rate of returning clients who refer us to others. The total investment in the development of SimEquest is approximately $250,000. When you take a lesson on Constance, the trainer is included. Therefore, you benefit from a lesson on a cutting-edge tool with a qualified trainer to guide you in identifying your challenges and helping you make the right corrections. How much would you be willing to pay to take a lesson on a $250,000 horse? Most importantly, how much are you willing to pay to finally understand what you are really doing with your body and how to correct it? It’s important to realize that one session on the simulator is equivalent to several lessons on horseback. In fact, the learning is much faster because the rider is 100% focused on themselves. You can repeat until your body has integrated the correct movement, and Constance never gets tired!

Advantages of training on a simulator

The screen provides real-time feedback. Possibility of repetition. 100% focus on yourself. Safe. Greatly accelerated progress. Comfortable (heated and air-conditioned). Mirrors. Use of a variety of tools that cannot be used on horseback. Stay in shape while your horse is injured. Regain confidence after a fall. Save your mount when starting out. Ride when the arena floor is unrideable, etc. See the Disciplines section for more examples.

Can my coach come with me?

Yes! Your coach is welcome. We regularly collaborate with the trainers of our students. However, this is not mandatory. Our trainer is included with every lesson and is specialized in using the simulator and our various tools.

How much time should I take? Is it demanding?

It depends on several factors such as your budget, whether it’s your first lesson, whether you come from far away, your fitness level, and whether you want to focus on flatwork or jumping. Generally, those coming from far away take at least 90 or 120 minutes. Some come in pairs and do 120 minutes each, alternating 60 minutes at a time. If you want to do flatwork/dressage and jumping, we suggest 90 minutes, especially if it’s your first lesson. Otherwise, we can do half-and-half, but the learning will be less in-depth. If you live nearby, come more often, 60 minutes at a time; your progress will be enhanced. The simulator can be quite intense when adding elastics, weights, and well over 100 jumps in one hour! Fortunately, we have air conditioning! The most difficult part is often concentration. Working 100% focused on yourself is demanding. A minimum level of fitness is desirable for 90 and 120-minute lessons.

Why don’t we have group rates?

If you come in a group, each person will have their private session on the simulator, but the others can attend the lessons like in a clinic. Groups are interesting for learning from each other, saving time on explanations, and having more learning. The time spent on the simulator and the trainer’s work are the same as in private lessons, while your learning is enhanced.

Do I need to bring my saddle?

If possible, bring your saddle. It’s useful to train with the same reference points as when you ride your horse. If not, we have very nice saddles available for you to borrow! Also, watch out for our upcoming partnership with several major brands. It will be a great opportunity to come try out different products.

Note: We don’t have western saddles or very large saddles. In those cases, please bring your own. No need for girth or pad.

How often should I come?

It is ideal to schedule a few lessons closer together initially and then space them out more as you are satisfied with your progress toward your goals. The more often you ride, the more you should space out your sessions. Integration of changes happens faster, but the same goes for the integration of bad habits or returning to old patterns. This is especially true when major changes are involved (e.g., pelvis angle).

Payment Methods

Cash, credit, or debit. On-site the same day.

Tips for Your First Lesson

Maximum weight: 220 lbs / 100 kg

We would appreciate it if you arrived with clean riding boots or shoes.

You must wear your helmet or sign a liability waiver. Helmets are available on-site.

We suggest wearing fitted clothing so we can better see your position.

You can bring your saddle or use one of ours (small or medium size, dressage or jumping).

No need for a saddle pad or girth. Please bring your Western saddle as we do not have one at the moment.