Rider Performance and Coaching Development at CAFRE
Date published:
The Rider Performance Hub at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) will host two days of coaching this October.
The programmes will offer both equestrian professionals and riders the opportunity to experience the benefits of cutting-edge simulator technology at Enniskillen Campus.
Taking place on 29 and 30 October 2026, the events will be conducted under the guidance of leading Stage 4 Senior Eventing Coach, Nicky Caden BHSII.
Training will showcase how equestrian simulators can be used to enhance rider performance, build confidence, support coach education and provide objective feedback in a safe and controlled learning environment. Drawing on extensive coaching experience, Nicky will demonstrate how simulator-based training can support riders and coaches at all levels of development.
The programme begins on Thursday 29 October with a Riding Simulator Coaching Day. Continue your professional development with this workshop designed for riding coaches, instructors, equine staff and support personnel.
Participants will explore how simulator technology can be incorporated into coaching programmes to assess rider position, balance, symmetry and effectiveness while providing objective data to support coaching decisions.
The practical workshop will include demonstrations, simulator familiarisation, coaching exercises and programme development activities, helping attendees gain confidence in using simulator technology within their own coaching practice.
On Friday 30 October, the focus shifts to riders with a series of individual one-to-one simulator coaching sessions delivered by Nicky Caden. These personalised sessions will enable riders to analyse and improve their position, balance, effectiveness of aids and overall riding performance using advanced simulator technology. Suitable for riders aged 16 and over, all abilities and disciplines, the sessions will be tailored to individual goals, whether participants wish to improve confidence, refine technique, enhance communication with their horse or gain a deeper understanding of riding biomechanics.
The events form part of CAFRE's ongoing commitment to supporting innovation within the equine sector through its Equine Business Support provision. By combining sport science principles, expert coaching and specialist simulator technology, the Rider Performance Hub provides opportunities for rider development, coach education and performance enhancement without the variables presented by a live horse.
The CPD workshop will run from 9.30 am to 4.00 pm on Thursday 29 October at a cost of £35, including refreshments and lunch. Individual rider simulator sessions on Friday 30 October are available at an introductory rate of £50 per session.
For coaches seeking to develop evidence-informed training methods, or riders looking to improve performance and confidence, these events offer a unique opportunity to experience the potential of simulator-based learning at CAFRE’s equestrian training facilities at Enniskillen Campus.
For further information and booking details, visit the events section of the CAFRE website.
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