The Equine Catalyst Learning Laboratory
Where Riders, Trainers & Thinkers Come to Experiment, Evolve & Excel
Transform your training.
Empower your horse.
Change the game.
Connect with The Equine Catalyst
Whether you're striving for harmony in the saddle, seeking ethical and science-backed training solutions, or looking to fix persistent issues,
you're in the right place.
At The Equine Catalyst, we're building a learning hub of transformative online courses that blend the latest in equitation science with real-world experience.
These aren't cookie-cutter tutorials—they’re immersive, thought-provoking journeys that will change the way you train and ride.
“Great horsewomen and men aren’t born, they are trained.
And it all starts with understanding the horse -
from the brain to the biomechanics and beyond.”
— Jody Hartstone
New for 2026: Two Powerful 10-Week Learning Journeys
We're excited to introduce two in-depth courses designed to expand your knowledge, challenge your thinking, and connect you with a like-minded community of horse lovers and professionals. Both courses run over 10 weeks, with one live session per week, including
interactive group discussions, Q&A, and downloadable resources to support your learning.
Whether you're a dedicated dressage rider or an equine professional seeking CPD hours,
these courses will take you on a meaningful, eye-opening journey.
Equine CPD – Continued Professional Development for Coaches & Trainers
Dressage Done Differently – Ethical, evidence-based training for modern dressage riders
Each course is a chance to dive deep, ask questions, and explore new ways of working with horses—rooted in science, compassion, and clarity.
Dressage Done Differently
modern dressage, redefined—with ethics and evidence at its core.
COMING SOON!!!
You don’t need harsh gadgets or stronger aids. You need better information.
Dressage Done Differently is for riders who want to build calmness, softness, and self-carriage—without compromising the horse’s welfare or their own values. You’ll explore the biomechanics of correct movement, the science behind the aids, and a shaping scale to systematically build the responses you need in the arena
Inside, you'll find:
Step-by-step shaping of stop, go, turn, and yield
The half halt demystified
The real meaning of contact, straightness, and rhythm
How to recognize and fix tension through correct training, not force
A roadmap to ethical dressage—whether you're competing or just training for joy
Ideal for amateur riders looking to embrace a more scientific,
horse-centered approach to dressage.
Equine CPD: Continued Professional Development for Coaches & Trainers
challenge the norm - embrace the science - redefine good training.
COMING SOON!!!
Equine professionals are under more scrutiny than ever—and it’s not a bad thing. This course is your go-to CPD resource to stay current with the latest science, meet growing welfare expectations, and sharpen your coaching edge.
In Equine CPD you’ll dive into:
The ISES 10 First Principles of Horse Training
Learning theory made practical for coaching
Behavior modification for common training issues
Ethical use of equipment and aids
Understanding the horse’s emotional and cognitive abilities
Perfect for riding instructors, equestrian coaches, and trainers wanting to align with modern, welfare-conscious practices. Includes certificate-based completion for professional development requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these courses suitable for beginners?
Our courses are designed for riders and coaches who already have some experience and are ready to deepen their understanding. You don’t need to be a professional or have fancy gear—but a basic level of riding or training knowledge will help you get the most from the content. If you’re unsure, feel free to book a free discovery call to see which course fits you best.
What’s the difference between Dressage Done Differently and traditional dressage training??
Dressage Done Differently teaches both classical and traditional dressage principles through the lens of learning theory and equine neuroscience. Instead of relying on strength, gadgets, or guesswork, you’ll learn how to train each response systematically—with compassion, science, and structure. It's perfect for riders who love dressage but want to train in a way that truly puts the horse first.
Is the Equine CPD course only for coaches?
While Equine CPD is tailored to meet the needs of instructors, trainers, and professionals needing formal CPD hours, passionate horse owners and advanced riders will also benefit. If you’re curious about learning theory, ethical training, and the science of how horses learn and behave, you’ll fit right in.
Do I need to attend live sessions, or can I watch recordings?
All group sessions in our 10-week courses (Dressage Done Differently and Equine CPD) are recorded and made available to participants. We encourage you to attend live for the group discussion aspect—but if you can’t make it every week, you won’t miss out.
Are there any prerequisites?
No formal prerequisites! These courses are designed to be accessible and thought-provoking. If you're curious, open to new ideas, and ready to learn in a structured way, you'll do just fine.
Do the courses come with a certificate of completion?
Yes. Both Equine CPD and Dressage Done Differently offer certificates for participants who complete the course. The Equine CPD course is especially useful for meeting professional development requirements.
“I can’t wait to share the knowledge I’ve gained from over 20 years of studying Equitation Science—insights that completely transformed me from just another rider and trainer into someone who truly understands how horses think, learn, and feel. This information didn’t just change my approach. It changed my life—and it can change yours too.”
—
Jody Hartstone, The Equine Catalyst
Equine Catalyst: Empowering you with the knowledge and skills to create a brighter future for your horses. Where sport, ethics, and science converge.
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