Biomechanics

Posture & sitting

Healthy training

Posture

Why this course?

Insights into equine biomechanics and kinesiology have increased significantly in recent years. A wealth of knowledge is now available, which is a positive development for the equestrian 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 with physical challenges, such as hypermobility, this requires nuance, observation, and a well-considered approach.

This course focuses on precisely that: learning to understand how to apply biomechanical knowledge in training and how to responsibly guide a horse toward greater strength, stability, and resilience. The goal is to help the horse develop healthily and functionally, even when progressing to a higher training level requires extra attention.

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

Points of focus within the training include:

• Balance and movement – analyzing and guiding horses towards functional vertical and horizontal balance
• Forces and stability – understanding gravity, centrifugal forces and the influence of anatomical structures
• Analysis and training – assessing build, conformation and movement patterns and tailoring training to the individual horse
• Fascial system - how does it work and how does it affect a horse's training, posture, movement coordination, and overall health?

The full course 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'll earn your instructor's diploma. Years 1 and 2 are group-based.

In years 3 and 4 we work on further deepening in all areas, which is provided in an individual trajectory.

Would you prefer a personalized program? That's also possible with 4D Mastery 1:1. Contact us for more information.



Structure of the training?

The training is practical and is taught in small groups. This allows ample opportunity for observation, in-depth study, and discussion of individual training situations. You will learn theory through self-study and partly during practical training days.

Topics covered

Biomechanics: from basic principles to advanced 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-bone balance and nutrition

Specific points of attention: recognizing special building features and congenital variations (such as hypermobility) within the context of training and guidance

The full course consists of four years.

In year 1, we lay a solid foundation, and in year 2, we deepen our knowledge and earn your instructor's diploma. Years 1 and 2 are group-based, allowing you to learn a lot from each other. In years 3 and 4, we delve deeper into all areas, which are taught through individual learning programs.

Please note: This course focuses on education, training, and guidance. Diagnosing and performing veterinary or therapeutic procedures are outside the scope of this course.

Skills you develop

After completing the course you will be able to:

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

Knowledge and competencies

You will 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 resilience
• The importance of cooperation and timely referral to a veterinarian or other specialists
• Responsible training structure and resilience

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 training can be followed with or without a horse.

Practical participants bring their own horse.

Theory participants participate without a horse and follow all components without a horse and observe the practical aspects.

Entry requirements

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

Result after completion

After completing the course you will be able to:

• Analyzing and guiding horses in training from a biomechanically based perspective
• Tailor training structure to individual resilience
• Contribute responsibly to sustainable training and injury prevention
• Professional collaboration with veterinarians and other specialists

Guidance & learning environment

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

During the course you will 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 day of the practical training, you will receive two study books that you will need during the training: Anatomy of the Sport Horse by Gillian Higgins and Successfully Training Your Horse by Drs. Karin Leibbrandt.

Diploma

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

Participants without a horse can take the theory exam and will receive a certificate of participation if they pass.

After completing 4D Biomechanics & Performance Trainer PRO 2 (year 2) you can take out instructor insurance.



Kosten

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

Payment options:

• Pay in one go: €3,400 excl. VAT
• In 2 installments: 2 x € 1,785 excl. VAT
• In 10 installments: 10 x €374 excl. 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 go: €1,930 excl. VAT
• In 2 installments: 2 x € 1,013.25 excl. VAT
• In 10 installments: 10 x €212.30 excl. VAT

Lunch: bring your own

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

Data

The practical days:

Day 1: March 28, 2026

Day 2: April 16, 2026

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

Dag 10: in 2027 n.t.b.

Theory and practical exam: in 2027 n.t.b.

Online meeting 1: in 2026 n.t.b.

Online meeting 2: in 2026 n.t.b.

Location

The main location for practical lessons is in Hoevelaken. It's a pleasant, quiet location with an indoor arena and a theory room. The horses are given a spacious stall with a thick layer of straw and unlimited unpacked hay. Coffee, tea, and treats are available every day of the practical.

Should we unexpectedly have to move to another location, this will preferably be in the central Netherlands. We will inform you of this well in advance.

What do people say about us:

Why choose our training?

1. Experience and Expertise – Our training program was developed by Dr. 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 path.
2. Scientifically Based – The content of our training is based on the latest scientific insights, including the rediscovery of the equine fascial system. You will learn methods that are effective and safe for both horse and rider.
3. Practical and Personal – We offer small groups and personal guidance, so you can immediately work on your skills and get the most out of your training.
4. Quality – After completing your diploma, you will have so much knowledge and experience that you can really make a difference.

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

Do you have any questions?