This intensive study program offers three days of focused study and practice of a variety of  bodywork techniques and ground exercises helpful in the holistic training and health management of equine athletes. Students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of horses and to observe clients and horses at various levels. Participants should have basic knowledge of and experience in working with horses, but need no prior experience in any kind of bodywork.

Equine Bodywork Overview and Application
Learn basic equine anatomy, practice conformation and gait analysis and master massage strokes. You'll practice pre- and post-event massages and discuss how to spot early-warning signs of physical stress and develop strategies for minimizing or eliminating the problems. We’ll cover use of essential oils in massage and introduce acupressure techniques for relaxation and more.

Groundwork – Kinetic Bodywork and Longing
After practicing the hands-on bodywork techniques, we'll explore how an educated handler can help horses achieve balance and choose self-carriage working in hand (both on a short line and a longe line) and at liberty. You'll learn a variety of exercises I have developed and used with horses in various disciplines and to address many common soundness and balance issues. You’ll also design at least one exercise of your own to help a horse you regularly work with, and we’ll have the chance to test your inventions on a variety of horses.

Participation in the program is limited to four students. Program days will be 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with a break for lunch. Cost of the intensive study program will be $750, with a $250 deposit due 14 days before the start of the three-day session.

Lodging for program participants is available in the nearby Civano neighborhood, a quiet and friendly "green" development just five minutes from our home base, River Valley Ranch. Though our program will be intensive, you'll also have time to enjoy a yoga class at Yoga House at Civano, hike nearby Saguaro National Park or see the sunset from Mount Lemmon.

Participants are welcome to bring their own well-mannered horses to the program, with the understanding that all the horses involved will be handled and worked with by other participants. Lodging for participant horses will be available on-site.