Finding Your Stride Shouldn't Mean
Starting Over
Rediscover the joy and confidence of riding with support that understands the unique challenges you're facing.
Expertise Born from Experience
As an upper-level dressage trainer and a mother, Ashley understands first-hand the unique challenges you face - whether you're returning to riding or just want to improve your skill. From Training level to Grand Prix. you've found a program that is specifically designed to develop your physical foundation and skyrocket your confidence.
Ashley Parsons is a native of Massachusetts who relocated to North Carolina to be a working student, then assistant trainer for Jennifer Baumert, A Grand Prix dressage trainer and competitor. Since then she has the pleasure of training with several top FEI dressage trainers including JJ Tate and Scott Hassler. She's trained several horses thru the FEI level and competed in Grand Prix dressage.
For the past several years she has been training with Susanne Von Dietz, author and creator of the Balance through Movement method. Susanne has been an overwhelmingly positive influence in the direction of Ashley’s training as well as fostering her passion for rider biomechanics.
In 2021 after the birth of her second daughter she suffered a traumatic birth injury that sidelined her from riding. It took 18 months of careful rehab before she was able to return to her former level of riding. This experience brought to light the profound need for proper rehabilitation and training on and off the horse both postpartum and after an injury. Ashley has since then shifted her focus from solely training dressage horses for competition to helping riders achieve balance, stability and joy in the saddle. She became a certified movement teacher in the Restore Your Core method to enhance her understanding of helping riders correct asymmetries and build strength and stability.
Ride with Courage
Discover a lesson experience where you feel physically attuned and excited to work with your horse. Our specialized programs are designed to restore your strength, balance, and confidence, bringing you back to your best riding self.
Navigating a Changed Body
When life changes affect your body, riding the way you used to might feel like a distant memory. You're not just missing your time at the barn; you're missing a part of your identity.
Regained Confidence and Joy
Tame the Fear
Clients who join our programs experience a renewed confidence and joy as they reconnect with their horses. They overcome fears, regain their former riding prowess, and rediscover the emotional and physical rhythm of riding.
Improved Stability and Strength
Come back to a more capable you
Through tailored exercises focused on core stability and strength, you’ll regain the physical foundation essential for safe and enjoyable riding. These sessions are designed to help you adapt your riding technique to your current physical condition.
A Supportive Community of Riders Like You
Connect with Peer Support
Join clinics and online lessons that provide a supportive environment where you can exchange experiences, gain motivation, and celebrate each milestone together.
Every rider deserves to feel safe and confident, no matter their life stage or level of experience.
Committed to Helping You Ride Better Than Before
Understanding Your Journey Back to the Saddle
Are you struggling to reclaim your confidence and comfort in the saddle? Perhaps you’re a middle-aged or older rider, or someone recovering from injury? You're navigating new fears or finding that your body isn’t cooperating like it used to, and you're here because you wish to return to riding with confidence, understanding, and joy—regardless of the physical challenges that come with life’s changes.
Solutions for Every Stage of Life
Experience an approach that addresses not just the technical aspects of dressage and riding, but also the physical and emotional barriers you might be facing. With a deep understanding of biomechanics, our program helps you adjust your riding technique to work in harmony with your current physical state. Whether it’s rebuilding core strength, overcoming new anxieties, or adapting to physical limitations, our goal is to help you achieve a fulfilling and joyful riding experience.
Your Goals are in Reach with Personalized Support
You want more than just standard lessons; you desire a training experience that recognizes and adapts to your unique needs. Enhance your skills, strengthen your mind-body connection, and understand the "why's" within your learning.
By providing clear guidelines and support, you'll build real knowledge, making the training process more fruitful and fulfilling. Don't just meet your riding goals but exceed them, with sessions crafted to bring out the best in you and your horse.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What if I feel anxious about riding again?
It’s completely normal to feel anxious. Our programs focus on rebuilding confidence slowly and methodically, ensuring you feel secure and ready for each step.
Are there exercises I can do at home to prepare for riding?
Yes, we offer a range of exercises that focus on core strengthening and flexibility that you can start at home to prepare your body for riding.
Do you offer programs for riders who aren't new moms but are dealing with physical limitations?
Absolutely! Our programs are tailored to accommodate riders of all backgrounds and physical conditions, whether you’re dealing with age-related challenges, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking to improve your physical fitness for better riding.
How are the lessons structured for someone returning to riding after a long break?
Each lesson is customized based on your individual needs and goals. We start with an assessment to understand your current level and any specific challenges you face. From there, we gradually build up your skills and confidence, ensuring each lesson is both enjoyable and effective.
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What Our Clients Say...
Fate? Providence? Luck? I think all those things were involved when my horse and I moved across states and ended up in Ashley Parsons’ hands.
She did not scoff at my Morgan pony, or my untenable fear leftover from a years-ago riding accident, instead she welcomed us with kindness and the belief that we could both learn and grow in the discipline of dressage.
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Customer
That’s what I love about Ashley’s training. She’ll call your bluff if you need it, or gently direct you when it’s appropriate. She praises often, but isn’t afraid to correct, tease, or even call out “Are you drunk?” if you wiggle off your line. She has an excellent sense of humor, but first and foremost she is caring and passionate about the horses and the discipline of dressage.
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Customer
[Ashley] is talented in many
ways, with an amazing ability to "read" horses and know what they need. She gives them confidence by training them without fear, they always end up
giving her the extra mile.
Ashely is open minded and is always willing to learn new things, she will go the extra mile for anyone who believes in her. She is always honest in her teaching in order to help you grow.
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Customer
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