I'm Ashleigh - also known as KudaGuru. I'm a horse trainer and riding coach who likes to turn the world a little bit upside down!
Many years ago, I started out traditionally, qualifiing through the British Horse Society, the South African National Equestrian Federation and the International Group of Equestrian Qualifications. I competed across the board - eventing, dressage, show jumping, equitation and showing; ran my own riding school and livery yard; taught all ages and all abilities. Ticked all the boxes. But, teaching frustrated me because I could see the issue - I could sense in my own body how to fix it... But I couldn't find the words...
Through various circumstances, I found my way to Mary Wanless, of Ride With Your Mind fame, and became an accredited RWYM trainer, being exposed to a totally new way of thinking and explaining.
Now, combining my love of travel, exploring physically and mentally, as well as being a perpetual beginner (I'm always trying out a new sport or hobby) I turn teaching and learning on it's head.
I believe that ethical, logical training is essential and possible for anyone, two and four legged; I believe that most limitations can be overcome through understanding and taking a new route, and I believe that the most important trainer at any moment is your four-legged dance partner... If we're on the same page, come and play!
"It was a pleasure to meet you! Again thanks for making my stay in Bali even more perfect, I left both your classes with a huge smile on my face. I learned from one class with you than I have learned during the last 10 years when it comes to how to use my body to impact the horse more correctly. Your eclectic, bio-mechanical, logical and visual approach proves to be much efficient and it was amazing to feel the difference on the horse's reaction on even the slightest of changes in posture from my side. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to take part of your learning system including your very thorough, relaxed and positive approach. I feel I got a new set of tools that I can use on any horse back, I wish many others to also get the same sense of revelation as I did."
Sara - Sweden.
Worldwide Freelance Coaching
I travel the internationally offering clinics in biomechanics for all disciplines, work in hand, long lining and equine proprioception. Countires I currently travel to include England, Scotland, Sweden, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Africa, Eswatini and Zimbabwe. I'm always open to new ideas!
Online Coaching
With the advent of the global pandemic and travel restrictions, I have moved many of my classes online and now teach private, live lessons via Zoom, WhatsApp and Pivo. It is just as good as the real deal!
Online Courses
The addition of online courses now helps to fill the gaps when I can't be in the same country as you. Also, if you have seen me in person, there is so much to take in during a clinic, reviewing the relevant course can help remember all that we did. Don't know me yet? Have a look at online courses and if you want more, get in touch!
Online Courses - Are they for you?
Who Do I Work With?
Children and Young Riders.
As the Chief Instructor for several branches of The Pony Club for many years, I taught a lot of theory to a lot of young riders. I learnt what worked, what didn't work and what the examiners were looking for. Learning for a certain test, level or skill is something that I absolutely understand.
Parents, Spouses and other Honorary Grooms.
You don't want to ride, but have been roped into towing the ponies to rallies, or helping your significant other at horse shows... Only to find yourself in trouble for not knowing the difference between a Forelock and a Fetlock...
Serious Riders, First time Horse Owners and Young Coaches.
When you first buy a horse of your own (or even as you start to think about it), you begin to realise how few practical skills you are confident with. And, as a coach starting out, you are at a loss of what is important to teach when... Start working through a structured, step by step plan to make sure that all the bases are covered.
For more information about me, visit my website, www.kudaguru.com or follow me on Facebook, Instagram or Telegram at KudaGuru.
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