Biomechanics

Posture & Sitting

Healthy training

Body posture

Why this program?

Insights into equine biomechanics and movement science have increased significantly in recent years. A great deal of knowledge is now available, which is a positive development for the horse world.

At the same time, this also raises questions: how do you translate this theory into daily practice?

How do you actually apply biomechanical principles during training, and how do you tailor them to the individual horse? Especially with horses facing a physical challenge, such as hypermobility, this requires nuance, observation, and a well-thought-out approach.

That is precisely what is central to this course: learning to understand how to apply biomechanical knowledge within training, and how to responsibly guide a horse towards greater strength, stability, and load-bearing capacity. The goal is to enable the horse to develop in a healthy and functional way, even when the path to a higher training level requires extra attention.

Within this program, you will learn how biomechanical principles and knowledge of the fascial system can be applied within training and coaching, with the aim of supporting functional and sustainable movement.

Focus areas within the program include:

• Balance and movement – analyzing and guiding horses towards functional vertical and horizontal equilibrium
• Forces and stability – insight into gravity, centrifugal forces, and the influence of anatomical structures
• Analysis and training – assessing conformation, conformation, and movement patterns, and tailoring training to the individual horse
• Fascial system – how it works and what influence it has on the training, posture, movement coordination, and overall health of a horse.

The complete program consists of four years.

In Year 1, we lay a solid foundation and deepen our knowledge; in Year 2, we delve even deeper and you obtain your instructor's diploma. Years 1 and 2 are group-based.

In years 3 and 4, we work on even greater depth in all areas, which are taught in an individual track.

Would you prefer an individual program? That is also possible with 4D Mastery 1:1; contact us for more information.



Structure of the program?

The course is practice-oriented and taught in small groups. This allows ample opportunity for observation, in-depth study, and discussing individual training situations. You learn theory through self-study and partly on the practical days.

Topics covered

Biomechanics: from basic principles to in-depth applications

Training and training structure: working on the lunge, under saddle, and with double lines

Prerequisites for functional movement: including rider balance, saddle fit, hoof-leg balance, and nutrition

Specific points of attention: recognizing distinctive structural characteristics and congenital variations (such as hypermobility) within the context of training and guidance.

The complete program consists of four years.

In Year 1, we lay a solid foundation; in Year 2, we deepen your knowledge and you obtain your instructor's diploma. Years 1 and 2 are conducted in a group setting because you learn a great deal from each other. In Years 3 and 4, we work on even greater depth in all areas, which are taught through an individual track.

Please note: this course focuses on education, training, and guidance. Making diagnoses and performing veterinary or therapeutic procedures fall outside the scope of this course.

We work according to a clear code of conduct.

Skills you develop

Upon completion of the program, you will be able to, among other things:

• To observe and analyze the balance and movement quality of horses, on the longe and under saddle.
• To guide horses towards functional balance within training, using the 4D principles: vertical and horizontal balance, lateral flexion (longitudinal bending), and direction in the diagonal plane (all tailored to the individual horse and participant).
• to assess build, movement quality, and training status
• Justify training choices based on biomechanical principles
• To evaluate training programs based on their short- and long-term effects
• To estimate the energy level and fatigue of the horse during training

Knowledge and competencies

You delve into, among other things:

• Anatomy and function of the musculoskeletal system (skeleton, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia)
• Biomechanics of balance, lateral flexion, core stability, and movement coordination
• Structure and function of the lower leg, lower foot, hoof, and digestive system
• Recognizing signals that may indicate discomfort or reduced load capacity
• The importance of collaboration and timely referral to a veterinarian or other specialists
• Responsible training structure and load capacity

Who is this course intended for?

This course is suitable for:

• Professionals in the horse industry
• Trainers, instructors, and riders with demonstrable basic knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, and training
• Highly motivated owners who want to deepen their knowledge

The course can be taken with or without a horse.

Practical participants bring their own horse.

Theory participants take part without a horse, follow all sections without a horse, and observe the practical sessions.

Entry requirements

• Basic knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics is expected.
• Participation in a Basic Balance day, classes with a PRO3 instructor, or taking the online course is strongly recommended to keep up with the pace of the training.

Result after completion

Upon completion of the program, you will be able to:

• Analyzing and guiding horses within training from a biomechanically grounded perspective
• Tailoring training structure to individual capacity
• Contribute to sustainable training and injury prevention in a responsible manner
• Collaborate professionally with veterinarians and other specialists

Guidance & learning environment

The course is led by veterinarian Karin Leibbrandt, instructor and behavioral trainer Lydia van Oosten, and specialists in posture & seat, hoof-leg balance, and saddles.

During the course, you have access to an online learning environment with theory, background information, and supporting material.

The online learning environment also includes a handy app so you can view it anywhere.

On the first practical day, you will receive two textbooks you will need during the course: Anatomy of the Sport Horse by Gillian Higgins and Successfully Training Your Horse by Karin Leibbrandt.

Diploma

Upon successful completion, you will receive the diploma: 4D Biomechanics & Performance Trainer PRO 1

Participants without a horse can take the theory exam and receive a certificate of participation upon passing.

Upon completion of 4D Biomechanics & Performance Trainer PRO 1, you can progress to year 2, where you also obtain your instructor diploma and can get insurance as an instructor.

Please note: this course focuses on education, training, and guidance. Making diagnoses and performing veterinary or therapeutic procedures fall outside the scope of this course.

We work according to a clear code of conduct.

Kosten

Practical training participant (with own horse) Total price: € 3,400 excl. 21% VAT

Payment options:

• Pay in one lump sum: €3,400 excl. 21% VAT
• In 2 installments: 2 x €1,785 excl. 21% VAT
• In 10 installments: 10 x €374 excl. 21% VAT

Additional costs:

• Stall fee: €15 per day

Lunch: bring your own

Theory participant (without horse)

Total price: € 1,930 excl. 21% VAT

Payment options:

• Pay in one lump sum: €1,930 excl. 21% VAT
• In 2 installments: 2 x €1,013.25 excl. 21% VAT
• In 10 installments: 10 x €212.30 excl. 21% VAT

Lunch: bring your own

The price for a theory participant, without a horse, includes all theory and practical components that can be taken without a horse, including the theory exam.

Data

GROUP A = FULL!

The practical days:

Day 1: March 28, 2026

Day 2: April 17, 2026

Day 3: 16 May 2026 Day 4: 20 June 2026

Day 5: July 4, 2026

Day 6: September 4, 2026

Day 7: October 3, 2026Day 8: November 6, 2026

Day 9: December 12, 2026

Day 10: January 9, 2027

Theory and practical exam: June 12, 2027

Online meeting 1: 12 May 2026, 20:00

Online meeting 2: July 1, 2026, 8:00 PM

Online meeting 3: 17 November 2026, 20:00

GROUP B

The practical days:

Day 1: September 12, 2026Day 2: October 10, 2026

Day 3: November 7, 2026

Day 4: December 4, 2026

Day 5: January 16, 2027Day 6: February 12, 2027

Day 7 March 13, 2027

Day 8: April 2, 2027

Day 9: ntb

Day 10: ntb

Extra morning theory: January 9, 2027

Exam theory: ntb

Practical exam: to be determined

Online meeting 1: 17 November 2026, 20:00

Online meeting 2: n.t.b.

Online meeting 3: n.t.b.

Location

The main location where the practical lessons are held is in Hoevelaken. It is a pleasant, quiet location where we have access to an indoor arena and a theory room. The horses are provided with a spacious stall with a thick layer of straw and unlimited unpackaged hay. Coffee and tea with a treat are ready on every practical day.

Should we unexpectedly have to move to another location, this will preferably be in the Central Netherlands. This will be communicated in advance.

What people say about us:

Why choose our program?

1. Experience and Expertise – Our training program was developed by Karin Leibbrandt, a renowned veterinarian and expert in equine biomechanics. With over 20 years of experience and hundreds of satisfied participants, we offer a proven and reliable learning trajectory.
2. Scientifically Substantiated – The content of our training is based on the latest scientific insights, including the rediscovery of the fascial system in horses. You will learn methods that are effective and safe for both the horse and the rider.
3. Practice-oriented and Personal – We offer small groups and personal guidance, so you can immediately start working on your skills and get the most out of your education.
4. Quality – After obtaining your diploma, you will have so much knowledge and experience that you can really make a difference.

With our solid knowledge, personal approach, and proven results, you are assured of the best training for you and the horses.

We do not make diagnoses or treat medical conditions. In the event of health problems or a medical indication, we always advise contacting a veterinarian, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

We work according to a clear code of conduct.

Do you have any further questions?