Riding simulators, or mechanical horses, can offer many benefits to improving one’s riding technique, and are ideal for any riders whose confidence needs developing.

Mechanical horses like ‘Prince’, our trusty mechanical steed at Castle Leslie Estate, are perfect schoolmasters; tuition on a simulator is intensive, which means riders can quickly progress. The instructor can concentrate on the rider’s core stability and posture, without worrying about what the horse is doing. Clients here at Castle Leslie Estate range from beginners to advanced dressage riders, who find that tuition on a mechanical horse is useful for improving their seat, balance and effectiveness. Prince is very popular!

Essentially, an imbalanced rider can have a detrimental effect on the horse’s back. Therefore, lessons on a simulator would be ideal for anyone coming back to riding fitness, or who needs to improve their balance. They’re great for identifying and correcting biomechanical issues. You don’t have the problem of a horse’s unevenness to worry about!

If you’d like to come for targeted lessons on a riding simulator, why not book our equestrian and wellness holiday package – it’s available for either three or five days. The trip includes daily indoor riding, and you can also arrange for tuition on Prince. The trip includes three or five nights’ accommodation, with three x 45 minute indoor riding lessons each day, one consultation with a Sports Physiotherapist to review your general physical wellbeing, a daily spa ritual (full body massage), use of the sauna and outdoor hot tub daily, one 70-minute reflexology or reiki treatment, and two sessions of Yoga or Pilates! The trip also includes breakfast and a light lunch each day, and a two-course evening meal in Conor’s Bar, each evening. (Three Day Package from €1,205pps; 5 Day package from €1,775pps).  Click here to book any of these packages.