Rider Biomechanics: From Theory to Practice

Duration: 2.5 hours
Format: Theory + Practical Demonstration
Audience: RDA Coaches or anyone working with riders

About the Session

This interactive session explores the fundamentals of biomechanics within an RDA setting, helping coaches better understand how rider and horse movement work together.

We’ll begin by breaking down what biomechanics actually means in practice- using real-life photo and video examples to highlight common rider presentations seen in RDA sessions. From there, we’ll expand the lens to include the horse, exploring how equine movement, posture and way of going can directly influence (and be influenced by) the rider.

The session is designed to bridge the gap between theory and what you see in the arena every day- giving you practical insight you can immediately apply.

What You’ll Learn

• What biomechanics is and why it matters in RDA coaching
• How to recognise common rider presentations in RDA participants
• How horse movement and posture influence rider position and balance
• The relationship between rider and horse biomechanics- and how they affect each other
• How to begin making informed coaching decisions based on what you observe

Practical Application (Live Demo / Mechanical Horse)

The second half of the session brings everything to life.

Using a live horse and/or mechanical horse, we’ll:

• Apply theory to real scenarios
• Observe rider position and movement in practice
• Explore simple, effective exercises to support different rider presentations
• Practice cueing and adapting sessions to suit individual needs

This is an opportunity to see biomechanics in action and build confidence in applying your knowledge in a safe, supportive environment.

Why Attend?

• Build confidence in understanding why things happen- not just what you see
• Develop practical strategies you can take straight into your sessions
• Enhance both participant outcomes and equine welfare
• Learn in a supportive, discussion-led environment with real examples

About Stella Zhang

BSc (Exercise and Sport Science)

MSc Physiotherapy

MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy

MCSP, Cat A member of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT)

Originally from Sydney, Australia, Stella Zhang completed degrees in Physiotherapy and Exercise & Sport Science at The University of Sydney. She gained extensive experience in private practice and elite sport, including working within professional Australian Rules Football.

In 2019, Stella relocated to the UK to undertake a Master’s degree in Veterinary Physiotherapy at The University of Liverpool. Her dissertation explored the relationship between back pain and muscle asymmetry in Flat and National Hunt racehorses. She has a particular interest in racehorses and has successfully retrained several ex-racehorses for second careers.

Since moving to the UK, Stella has continued to work at the highest levels of elite sport, contributing to Olympic programmes at UK Sports Institute, including GB and England Hockey, as well as Premier League football with Brentford FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers. She currently works in motorsport, supporting drivers competing in Formula 1 and F1 Academy.

Outside of her professional work, Stella is a keen eventer and enjoys spending time with her mare, Babe, and her Jack Russell, Maxie.

Key Information

• Duration: 2.5 hours (approx. 1 hour theory + 1.5 hours practical)
• Format: Indoor theory + practical arena-based session
• What to wear: Comfortable, warm clothing and practical footwear suitable for an arena environment