Manuela McLean is the wife of world-renowned Equitation Scientist, Dr Andrew McLean. She and Andrew co-authored  “Horse Training the McLean Way” and more recently “Academic Horse Training”.

With Andrew’s focus on training and Manuela’s focus on getting the message across to riders, they have developed a rider- and horse-centred systematic approach of training horses on the ground and under-saddle according to the principles of learning theory. The signals or aids used are shaped progressively, and the horse’s responsiveness to them are the benchmark for progression. Calmness, relaxation and safety are the base for all training with the rider having a clear understanding of the signals he/she needs to use to ride and train their horse.

As well as her deep understanding of equine behaviour and training, Manuela’s own expertise comes from years as a competitor and educator. Her ability to communicate training and riding concepts in a clear and systematic format enable her to improve the performance and confidence of her pupils. Manuela trained Paralympian Joanne Formosa’s stallion to respond to Joann’s unique aids, helping them achieve Gold at the London 2012 Paralympics.

Manuela’s specialty is improving the rider’s posture and balance to enhance the delivery of their signals and to that end, she has developed multiple techniques for riders at all levels to improve their training. Her lessons are geared to the standard of horse and rider, they are easy to understand and produce positive outcomes. Terminology such as ‘inside leg to outside rein’, ‘throughness’, ‘half-halt’ and ’bend’ are simply explained to make sense while at the same time they are achievable without force. Manuela also specialises in fixing common problems such as tension, ‘laziness’, heavy mouthed, crookedness, as well as rider confidence, competition nerves and postural problems. Manuela’s coaching style is encouraging and positive, she is approachable and friendly enabling riders to feel confident and successful in their training.