About

Merrigan - a knowledgeable trainer with a world of experience backed up by modern science.  I am part of a veterinery research group at Liverpool Veterinery Hospital.

Originally coming up trough the BHS system, I sought out Centered Riding and have combined this with Horsemanship skills and a 13 year pupilage with Philippe Karl and his School of Legerete.  This is a powerful combination to develop a deep classical seat and effective aids and exercises for all horses.  

I partiularly like to work with young, green or troubled horses using progressive and kind techniques.  Classical training delivers non confusing aids to bring a horse and rider to a harmonious entity.

A passion for correct movement sent me down the saddle fitting path over 20 years ago - first training in Holland and following that up with delving into saddle design.  

Coupling Classical training and saddle fitting with Equine Sports Massage and becoming part of a veterinary research team has given me an eye for detail and a thorough knowledge of equine movement, remedial support for all equines from foal to school master.

I now offer classical  lessons in all disciplines, remedial help and saddle fitting as part of a unique package.

Classical Training

French Classical Training is the art equine education.  Slow and meticulous training from the ground up, develops a series of aids that remain the same throughout the training from foal to school master.

Foundation groundwork teaches the horse to understand how to interact with you and sets boundaries and begins the education process.  

Lunging begins the change to the horses balance and straightness and is not restricted to circles.  

Static Flexions and Classical In Hand begin the horses understanding of rein signals in preparation for ridden work.  

Saddle Fitting

An independent saddle fitter  bringing in my thorough knowledge of anatomy and dynamic conformation to make sure the horse has optimum comfort providing the rider with a secure and classical seat.

Careful consideration has been given to the saddles that I fit based on design features that support back health.

Remedial fitting is sometimes necessary for horses that have undergone surgery or have had previously ill-fitted saddles and are showing atrophy or other issues.

Girthing is an important part of saddle fit.  Poorly fitted girths can cause sores, restriction in movement and discomfort. 

Equine Bodywork

Having a deep understanding of equine anatomy, movement and posture is key to helping horses defining soreness or performance restrictions.  

Using a variety of techniques, deep and superficial to mobilise and rekindle switched off muscles and fascia to bring about comfort and rideability.

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