“What do I do that’s different?
What’s the Lamperd Method?

If you can allow the horse to perform to its potential it’s surprising what you can achieve. You and the horse are a team and you rely on each other. True performance is an expression of this partnership and the trust that you share.

I just remember no brilliant rider on an ill-disciplined horse, or wonder horse ridden by an idiot, has ever won anything.”

“This is the analogy I always use…if you were carrying someone around on your back and they were absolutely still, you’d get used to it, you could perform in an uninhibited manner.. If they were moving round, fidgeting, you’d always be aware they’re there. Always compensating for them. Second-guessing what they doing. Distracted from the task at hand.

The relationship between horse and rider is exactly like that. The horse has to be as confident in you as you are in the horse. They also need to take just as much responsibility as the rider – whatever the discipline…the horse has to understand the question being asked in order to be able to perform the task.. As a rider, it’s your responsibility to present the question in a way that the horse will understand. Training gives you the language to be able to communicate effectively with your horse, enhancing its performance rather than detracting from it.

I guess that’s my different take on things. I focus on horse and rider as one. And set them both goals and targets. Nurturing each of them to help achieve their full joint potential. With the insights I have gained from both practical experience and the deeper understanding of the coaching process from my academic work.

Of course, some riders like to know their trainer’s got a traditional background. That’s one of the reasons I have embraced the UK Coaching Council Level III qualification, with both British Showjumping and British Eventing. ‘Yes’, I’m one of only a few coaches in the UK to have both.

But a lot of my more advanced riders are interested in the psychology side of things too; that’s why I’m studying for an MSc in Coaching Science. It means I can offer a more-rounded training programme, bringing in ideas from other areas, other sports, to deliver optimum performance to the highest international level.”

It takes two!

Understanding the essence of the ‘Lamperd Method’ begins with knowing that riding success relies on partnership. It’s down to a team of two – horse and rider. Each depend on the other, whatever the discipline, whether it’s dressage, show jumping, cross country or a combination of all three. Warren expertly tailors methods to suit a rider’s specific requirements. Coupled with knowledge of how this will effect the actual horse, Warren produces a truly sympathetic synergy between horse and rider. A rider’s technique and consequences upon the horse’s performance are intrinsic.

The ‘Lamperd Method’ identifies the importance of returning back to basics and of being consistent. Warren ensures pupils understand why specific procedures are in place. As FRL Media suggests, ‘Warren has a clear way of explaining as he coaches, he is happy to demonstrate and relates well to his pupils. His talent lies in giving concise explanations and techniques that the rider can easily apply’. Warren also quickly sees what both, ‘rider and horse needs’.

Of course online coaching also helps with the field methods. That’s probably Warren supports his equestrian coaching, with free documentaries to watch from the comfort of your home.