Intensives

(click here for a FAQ sheet in PDF format)
Five to fourteen day intense individual instruction includes two to three riding or, if requested, work in hand sessions per day. Riders in the intensive program focus on every aspect of equitation, and design their own program to explore areas of particular interest.  

The intensive at NSAE is just that-- intense. Riders of all levels come to work and study for a minimum of five days, with at least two sessions per day working with the horse, and hours of observation in between.  Riders will be watching Craig working his client's horses in training sessions, teaching lessons, as well as boarding clients practicing and professionals course students working with their horses. You'll be riding, reading, watching, asking questions and generally digging in to the experience of being on site in a classical barn where the horse comes first, each time and everytime.

The program is designed to suit the individual rider, and it is appropriate for riders of any level, from any discipline or background. We work just as happily helping to get the novice rider safe for trail work as we do polishing the next Grand Prix champion.

Beginners will find the intensive has an amazing effect on their balance and confidence in the saddle as well as giving them a truly useful set of building blocks to take home with them as they develop their understanding of riding.

Intermediate to Advanced level dressage riders will find the seat work establishes a sense of balance far beyond what they had experienced previously, and that the deep, concise work on the aids makes a huge difference in their abilities at home.

And it's not only for dressage enthusiasts. We work with riders from all disciplines--professional clinicians and trainers, three day eventers, western trail riders, endurance and pleasure riders -- all types of people come through these doors each month and develop the precision and clarity of their communication with their horse.

Your day consists of two sessions of riding which are spaced at least an hour apart. Before, during, and after the sessions, riders are encouraged to observe the work going on around them.  Intensive session riders are expected to ask questions and to learn from watching the theoretical concepts play out in the work being done.

We have a comfortable classroom to stretch out in between sessions and books and tapes that help illuminate the work being done. If you haven't attended a clinic with Craig we do recommend that you order a copy of his DVD "Dressage Theory" to review before your intensive in order to familiarize yourself with the ideas we'll explore when you are here.

The surrounding area is known for its beauty, and has several places that riders can stay while studying as well as fun places to visit and explore off site. There is a limited amount of on site housing, subject to availability, and close by there are several low to moderately priced motels, a bed and breakfast, and a marvelous upscale spa retreat.

Click here for FAQ style information on the intensive.

Email to Mary Anne at the NSAE office if you have further questions, or to book your intensive now.