Dressage Training
& Instruction
with Laura Gillmer
Dressage Training
& Instruction
with Laura Gillmer
I start every lesson by asking how you’re doing, because stress, work, and family life affect the energy you bring to the barn. I tailor our lessons to what you and your horse are capable of in that moment.
I’ve worked extensively with a physical therapist to understand how the human body works — on the horse and off. I recognize physical limitations and have tools, exercises, and strategies to help riders and their horses gently push beyond them. I can help riders adjust their bodies to communicate better with their horses.
I often work with riders and horses who have had past difficulties. I break things down to their smallest component steps, and tackle them one at a time. As you and your horse see progress, your confidence grows and you’re ready to take on even more challenges. The positive effects stay with you even when you’re not in the saddle.
Although we’re always looking to move forward, we’ll never do it at the expense of you or your horse’s wellbeing. Sometimes we have to pivot, shift gears, and try something new, because the bottom line is always building a positive partnership between you and your horse.
Having worked with some of the top Grand Prix Dressage trainers in the U.S., I know what it takes to be the best. If you’re a competitor who’s willing to put in the hours it takes to win, I can help you and your horse get there. However, my approach will always be based on doing what’s best for you and your horse’s physical and emotional wellbeing.
in a positive, compassionate manner building trust and respect for a harmonious partnership.
in both horse and rider, leading to a better experience and fewer injuries
promoting confidence and clear communication for both horse and rider
Hi I’m Laura! I grew up in a small town in Vermont and started riding at age six. I learned that I had a real passion working with horses and teaching when I worked at a local Dressage barn in highschool. I decided to further my knowledge by attending the UMass Amherst Equine Industries program. At UMass I was a rider on both the Dressage and Equestrian Teams. During which time I trained with Advanced level eventer and FEI dressage rider, Jerry Schurink.
After graduation I worked as an assistant trainer to FEI trainer Harry Diel at Reindance Dressage. I gained significant experience starting young horses and trained many of them to the upper levels. I then furthered my training abilities with multiple FEI-level horses working as the assistant trainer and barn manager to nationally recognized Grand Prix trainer and competitor, Sharon McCusker of Souhegan Farm. During this time I competed successfully through Prix St. George, and earned my USDF Bronze and Silver Medals.
I started my freelance training business in 2014 and I encountered one of my most challenging horses — a feral rescue pony — which proved to be an unexpected gift as a trainer and educator. My dressage skills seemed to have no value in that particular situation and I started down the path of learning natural horsemanship. This work facilitated a deeper understanding of horse psychology and the value of groundwork as a tool for communication. I have gratefully incorporated this body of work, and I’m on a constant quest to learn more!