SOUNDNESS & SYMMETRY
Advancing Welfare - Optimising Performance
IN PRACTICE
9am - 5pm Monday 23rd February 2026
Vale View Equestrian Centre, Old Dalby, Leicestershire, LE14 3LX
UNDERSTAND. APPLY. IMPROVE.
A Practical Day for Owners, Riders and Professionals
Join us for "Soundness and Symmetry in Practice" - a full day of engaging lecture demonstrations and practical workshops led by leading equestrian professionals, all focused on enhancing equine and rider soundness, symmetry, and performance.
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Promoting Soundness and Symmetry in Elite Event Horses
A ridden lecture demonstration with Eventing Champion, Ros Canter
This will be a ridden demonstration of Ros's training methods, the importance of symmetry, and understanding how riders can manage, improve and work with symmetry issues to promote world class performance, as well as looking at conformation and balance with regards to training, and the impact that has on the soundness of our horses.
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Training for Longevity
A ridden lecture demonstration with Jeanette Brakewell and Dr Sue Dyson
Experience a unique opportunity to learn from two leading figures in the equestrian world—Dr. Sue Dyson, renowned equine orthopaedic specialist, and Olympic eventer Jeanette Brakewell—in an insightful lecture demonstration on “Training for Longevity”. This session focuses on improving soundness and symmetry in horses, offering practical, evidence-based strategies to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. Through a blend of veterinary insight and elite training expertise, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how subtle signs of discomfort or asymmetry can affect performance, and how thoughtful, tailored training can promote long-term soundness and partnership success. Ideal for riders, trainers, and equine professionals committed to supporting their horse’s wellbeing and competitive potential.
Spinal Evaluation Techniques
A practical workshop with Professor Kevin Haussler
Join Professor Kevin Haussler for a highly practical and informative workshop on Spinal Evaluation Techniques in Horses, designed for horse owners and equine professionals seeking to enhance their skills in assessing and supporting equine spinal health. This hands-on session will cover evidence-based methods for evaluating spinal mobility, alignment, and discomfort, with a focus on how these factors influence overall soundness and symmetry. Participants will learn to identify key signs of spinal dysfunction, understand their impact on performance and posture, and apply techniques to support musculoskeletal balance and longevity. With Professor Haussler’s expertise bridging veterinary science and biomechanics, this workshop offers invaluable tools to improve equine welfare and performance through better spinal care.
Postural Assessment
A practical workshop with physiotherapist, Dr Gillian Tabor
Join Dr. Gillian Tabor for an engaging and practical workshop on Equine Postural Assessment, designed for both horse owners and equine professionals. This hands-on session will explore evidence-based strategies for musculoskeletal assessment, with a focus on evaluating soundness, symmetry, and posture in horses. Participants will learn how to observe and interpret key postural indicators and apply proven techniques to identify musculoskeletal imbalances that may impact performance or comfort. Combining theory with real-life demonstrations, Dr. Tabor will guide attendees through effective assessment methods grounded in the latest research, helping them build confidence in detecting early signs of dysfunction and promoting long-term equine health and performance.
Horse - Saddle - Rider Symmetry
A practical workshop with the Society of Master Saddlers
Discover the vital connection between horse, saddle, and rider in this practical workshop led by experts from the Society of Master Saddlers. Designed for horse owners, riders, and equine professionals, this hands-on session explores how correct saddle fit and positioning influence symmetry, soundness, and performance. Participants will gain practical skills in assessing saddle fit, understanding pressure distribution, and identifying how subtle imbalances can affect both horse and rider. With a focus on promoting comfort, longevity, and optimal movement, this workshop provides essential, evidence-based insights into achieving better harmony and performance through thoughtful saddle-horse-rider interaction.
Practical Nutrition Assessment
A practical workshop with nutritionist, Clare MacLeod
Understanding your horse’s condition and nutritional needs is essential for their health, performance, and wellbeing. In this practical workshop with independent equine nutritionist Clare MacLeod, horse owners and equine professionals will gain the knowledge and skills to carry out effective hands-on nutritional assessments. Clare will guide participants through evaluating body condition, muscle development, and forage quality, and interpreting feed labels and diet plans. With a focus on evidence-based nutrition strategies, this session empowers attendees to make informed decisions tailored to their horse’s individual needs—supporting optimal condition, performance, and long-term soundness.
Rider Asymmetry: How to Assess and Improve it
A practical workshop with physiotherapist, Dr Lee Clark
Join Dr. Lee Clark, physiotherapist and rider symmetry specialist, for a dynamic and practical workshop focused on assessing and improving rider symmetry. Designed for riders of all levels and equine professionals, this hands-on session explores how rider posture, balance, and asymmetries can influence equine performance and comfort. Dr. Clark will guide participants through techniques to evaluate rider alignment and movement patterns, both on and off the horse, and introduce targeted exercises to enhance rider balance, stability, and effectiveness in the saddle. Backed by the latest in physiotherapy and biomechanics, this workshop offers essential tools to promote harmony between horse and rider, reduce injury risk, and improve overall performance.
Hoof Assymmetry Assessment
A practical workshop with anatomist, Dr Kirsty Lésniak
Join anatomy specialist Dr. Kirsty Lésniak for a hands-on workshop focused on assessing hoof asymmetry—a vital skill for all equestrians, particularly when evaluating a horse for purchase or performance potential. Participants will learn how to take accurate hoof measurements and identify asymmetries that can affect balance, movement, and long-term soundness. Kirsty will demonstrate how tools such as Kinovea software and Yogi’s HoofmApp can be used to collect and interpret data, and highlight how camera placement plays a critical role in capturing reliable images. The session will also include a practical look at limb asymmetry measurement, giving attendees a deeper understanding of the links between hoof structure, limb alignment, and overall biomechanics. This workshop offers invaluable, evidence-based insights into equine conformation and health.
A Modern Dental Examination
A practical workshop with dental specialist Dr Chris Pearce
Join leading veterinary dental specialist Dr. Chris Pearce for a practical, eye-opening workshop on what a modern equine dental examination should truly involve. This session is designed to give horse owners and equine professionals a clear understanding of the latest techniques and standards in dental care, moving well beyond routine checks. Dr. Pearce will demonstrate how a thorough dental assessment—using appropriate equipment, sedation, and anatomical knowledge—can uncover issues that directly impact a horse’s soundness and symmetry. With a focus on the anatomical connections between the teeth, jaw, poll, and spine, this workshop will show how addressing dental imbalances can lead to improved comfort, posture, and performance. A must-attend for anyone committed to whole-horse health and longevity.
Soundness and Symmetry in Practice is a hands-on, practical day designed as the ideal follow-on from the main conference. It's perfect for anyone eager to deepen their understanding and apply what they’ve learned.
Held at Vale View Equestrian Centre, just 20 minutes from the University, this unique event features live demonstrations and interactive sessions with several of the expert speakers from the conference.
Throughout the day, delegates will gain real-world insights into improving equine and rider symmetry, posture, and soundness. In the afternoon, participants will break into small groups and rotate through a series of practical stations, each focusing on different aspects of assessment and training.
This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from world-leading professionals working with live horses, and to take home practical tips and exercises you can immediately apply to enhance both horse and rider performance.
Lunch and refreshments included
Soundness and Symmetry IN PRACTICE
Tickets
From £162 (Save £87 when booking before 31st October)
For the most enriching experience, join the full conference in-person or online to gain a deeper understanding of the topics being explored.