Four Days with Ann Montgomery: A Transformational Riding Experience

From 14–17 May, Maestro, Thor and I attended The Mindful Rider Canberra clinic — a biannual highlight made even more special as I help organise these events locally. This time, we were immersed in not one, but two consecutive 2-day intensive clinics with Ann Montgomery, and once again, the experience proved just how powerful her coaching approach truly is.

A Setting Designed for Learning

Our journey took us to the stunning Kalaragan Equine property near Murrumbateman, NSW. Hosted by AJ, whose warm welcome is always appreciated, the facilities are nothing short of exceptional. The impressive 70m x 30m covered arena offers an all-weather training space, framed by rolling hills that, at this time of year, are often draped in soft morning fog — a peaceful and inspiring environment for both horse and rider.

The Structure: Thoughtful, Supportive, Effective

Each 2-day clinic is thoughtfully designed to support meaningful progress. Mornings begin with a 45-minute lesson shared across a small group of six riders, creating a collaborative and focused atmosphere. Midday brings an off-horse workshop, where we review video clips from the morning sessions and receive personalised feedback, along with fun off-horse exercises for deep rider awareness.

What sets Ann apart is her approach to feedback. Rather than defaulting to critique — the all-too-familiar “this is wrong, that is wrong” — she gently guides riders towards greater awareness. She empowers you to notice, feel and understand what is happening in your body and your horse’s, building the skills needed to create lasting improvement in both rider position and equine biomechanics.

Afternoons are dedicated to 30-minute lessons to practice and build on the biomechanical changes Ann is instilling in us. This gave me the perfect opportunity to introduce Thor, my youngster, to the clinic environment through in-hand work.

Supporting Both Horse and Rider

Maestro, now 18 and turning 19 later this year, requires careful management as a heavier-built horse. Attending these clinics allows me to refine my riding while supporting his long-term soundness. At the same time, I am gradually introducing Thor, who is two and turning three, to the learning environment — setting him up for future success.

On a personal level, I am currently managing injuries that would likely not pass a vet check (doh!). Ann was incredibly accommodating of my physical limitations, adapting exercises and expectations so I could still participate productively without compromising my recovery or further impeding my physical ability.

Maestro: Refinement and Feel

Over the four days, Maestro and I continued refining subtle adjustments in my riding position, enhancing his movement across all gaits. We worked through movements including:

• Shoulder-in and counter shoulder-in

• Leg yield

• Renvers (hindquarters out) and travers (hindquarters in)

• Half-pass

• Walk pirouettes

A standout moment was linking canter shoulder-in directly into half-pass in both directions with improved fluidity. It’s always humbling (and slightly amusing) to see how different something feels compared to how it looks on video!

At this stage in our journey, improvements are more refined rather than dramatic — but they are no less significant. Each small adjustment contributes to better balance, clarity and ease for both horse and rider.

Thor: Building Confidence and Curiosity

Thor’s journey was entirely in-hand, focusing on long-reining and introducing him to new challenges. Over the clinic, we developed smoother work through serpentines and transitions between walk and trot.

What stood out most was his temperament. Despite numerous potential distractions — echidnas rustling nearby, serious loudspeaker interference, tractors, motorbikes, moving vehicles, unfamiliar artwork and even moments alone in the arena — Thor remained calm, curious and composed.

There were countless proud moments where he chose to think through situations rather than react. His ability to regulate his nervous system is something I deeply value, and it’s a reflection of the time, patience and consistency invested in his training.

Why Ann’s Coaching Is Next Level

Ann Montgomery’s coaching stands apart because of her rare ability to translate complex horse and rider biomechanics into plain, accessible language. She doesn’t overwhelm — she simplifies.

Her teaching style is highly interactive. She:

• Encourages rider feedback and reflection

• Welcomes questions without judgement

• Builds confidence through understanding and feel

• Provides tools for riders to continue progressing independently

Rather than creating reliance, Ann equips riders with the knowledge and awareness to train effectively on their own. This fosters more skilful, confident riders — and ultimately results in happier, healthier horses.

A Journey of Continuous Growth

Having trained with Ann for nearly 10 years, I’ve experienced the full spectrum of development — from early “aha” moments to now working at a more refined level.

Reflecting on my own progress, I’ve gone from struggling with a “windscreen-wiper” lower leg (thanks to hypermobility challenges) to achieving movements like canter half-pass down the centreline. These milestones represent not just technical improvement, but a deeper awareness of my body and my horse’s needs.

What continues to inspire me is witnessing other riders experience their own breakthroughs. Newcomers often have multiple lightbulb moments as they unlock their horse’s movement and understanding — and it’s just as rewarding to watch each time.

More Than a Clinic — A Community

Beyond the riding itself, these clinics have cultivated a supportive and encouraging community here in Canberra. Riders of all levels come together to learn, cheer each other on, and celebrate progress — no matter where they are in their journey.

Final Thoughts

It’s difficult to truly capture the impact of Ann’s teaching in words. Her methods are eye-opening, empowering, and deeply rooted in creating genuine partnerships between horse and rider.

If you’ve ever considered attending — whether as a participant or spectator — I cannot recommend it enough. You’ll be welcomed openly into a community that values growth, connection and the wellbeing of both horse and human.

And who knows — it might just change the way you ride forever.