PureEquine Paula Doherty

20/07/2025

Sarah Blackburn Equitation & I are pretty excited by this collab with Sophie Horse And Rider Physio-Sophie Hargreaves & Dr Johnston Sports Med Vet Its perfect for your ridden prep into the new season!

Possibly our best Workshop of the Winter Re-set Series yet! 🤩.. A collab with SportsMedVet - Dr Georgina Johnston AND Horse & Rider Physio - Sophie Hargreaves!

Sponsored by Healthy Horses Inside Out!

Our Saturday 16 August Workshop is designed just for riders (no horses required). As the days get longer and warmer, we want to provide you with expert knowledge and guidance to bring your horse back into work safely and progressively.

We’ll also provide you with strategies to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the riding season ahead.

🕙 Morning - Getting Your Horse Fit For Summer! 🐎
We’re thrilled to welcome special guest Sports Med Vet - Dr. Georgina Johnston, who will present on:
✔️ Cardiac fitness requirements across disciplines and fitness monitoring tools
✔️ Recognising early signs of fatigue and pain – before they become injuries

Also covered in the morning:
✅ Why gradual conditioning is essential after time off
✅ Warm-up goals and cross-training ideas
✅ Understanding surfaces, lunging, poles, and circle work
✅ Injury prevention through smart planning and rider awareness
✅ Building your support team

🕐 Afternoon – Practical Session for the Rider 🚶‍♀️
Guest expert Horse & Rider Physio - Sophie Hargreaves will guide an interactive, rider-focused biomechanics session. Discover how your posture, asymmetry, strength, balance and everyday habits influence your riding – and how small changes can make a big difference in the saddle.

We’d love to help you and your horse return to work the smart way! We're so keen for participants to experience this workshop, we've set the price at the awesome value of $99. 😮

Looking forward to seeing you!
- Sarah & Paula x
Blackburn Equitation & PureEquine

📣 Limited spaces available (priority given to past Workshop participants)
📩 Register using the link below to reserve your spot!
https://form.jotform.com/sarahjsb/winter-re-set-series-4

18/07/2025

I love how Gemma says 'horses remind us of the way we show up in this world'.

Just wrapped up two amazing days on the Lead Within course facilitated by the incredible Andrew and Sam Froggatt. Who knew a horse could teach you so much about yourself? I’ll be honest, I’ve always been a bit scared of horses since a fall when I was young. So stepping into an arena with them felt pretty intimidating (especially as I was paired up with an ex racehorse 😆) but they’re such special animals and such great teachers. They’re so honest. They respond to your body language, energy, and presence. You can’t fake confidence around a horse, they’ll just feel it instantly. I learnt so much about myself and it was a powerful reminder of the way we show up in the world. Highly reccomend this course!

17/07/2025

A another great example of how amazing the body is! Thanks Dental Vet

04/06/2025

Two more spaces left - come join us! You'll leave knowing youve nailed the first step of preparing yr horse for ridden work; evidence based postural & strengthening exercises. Easily achieved in these short daylight hours. Boom!

📣 Only a few places remain for Workshop Two of the Winter Re-Set Series – happening Saturday 14th June at the Chch RDA Indoor Arena! ❄

We’ve had a fantastic response! 🥳
🐴 All spots for participants with a horse have filled, but we will start a waitlist. Get in touch if you'd like to be on standby.
👀 4 spaces remain available for those attending without a horse (observer participants)

During this one day workshop you’ll learn:

🟢 Practical activation and mobilisation exercises to enhance your horse's stability and strength – all grounded in research.

🟢 A sequence to assess and relieve tension or discomfort in your horse, using bodywork techniques that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

✨ Whether your horse is in full work, on a break, or somewhere in between – this day will give you tools to support them through winter and beyond.

✅ Enjoy a supportive environment with likeminded horse owners

💲 $149 participate with a horse
💲 $99 without a horse

📩 Don’t miss out – use the link below to register. We’d love to have you join us!
https://form.jotform.com/sarahjsb/WinterRe-set

— Sarah & Paula 😊
Blackburn Equitation & PureEquine

15/05/2025

Whoop whoop, see below for Workshop 2 of the Winter Re-set Series....

❄❄ WINTER RE-SET SERIES: Workshop Two – Strength & Support ❄❄

📅 When: Saturday 14th June 2025
📍 Where: Riding for the Disabled Indoor Arena
💲 How much: $149 with a horse or $99 without

📣 We're thrilled to announce that registrations are now open for the second workshop in our Winter Re-Set Series, following the incredible success and warm feedback from Workshop One.

Practical sessions will include targeted activation, postural and stability exercises, based in research, to maintain your horse throughout the winter months when riding hours are few and far between.

You'll also learn a sequence of exercises to check your horse for tension or discomfort, along with a series of bodywork techniques to help release some of this tension and get more familiar with how your horse is feeling in their body.

Whether you're a returning participant or new to the series, this is your chance to:
✅ Learn hands-on techniques to help your horse
✅ Develop your observation and feel
✅ Create a practical, time-efficient routine to use all winter
✅ Join a supportive, fun, and informative environment

Bring your horse or come as an observer – either way, you'll walk away with a toolkit of useful strategies to continue applying at home.

📩 Spots are limited! Register now using the Jotform link below. ⬇⬇ ⬇ https://form.jotform.com/sarahjsb/WinterRe-set

We can’t wait to welcome you! 😊

– Sarah & Paula
Blackburn Equitation & PureEquine

15/05/2025

To all my clients who kindly ask how the study is going.....here's some proof I am finally getting it done. Phase 1 complete, two to go 😱

Added: thank you everyone for yr kind & enthusiatic words. I will re-read them when I am in the depth of the next block to give me motivation to keep going! ❤️

09/05/2025

🌟 What a fantastic start to the Winter Re-Set Series! 🌟

Our first workshop was a wonderful success — a huge thank you to everyone who joined us. We were thrilled to share the day with such engaged, thoughtful horse owners who are committed to deepening their knowledge to help support their horses.

Here’s what some of our participants had to say:
💬 "Excellent knowledge, well presented, good discussions that connects a lot of dots."

💬 "Sarah and Paula are very knowledgeable and great in how they explain things."

💬 "You guys have gone above and beyond today. Thank you, thank you. 100/10!"

We're feeling incredibly inspired and can’t wait to do it all again. 🎉

📅 Our next workshop is coming up on Saturday, June 14th, and we'll be opening registrations very soon. Keep an eye on this page if you'd like to join us for a day of learning, connection, and practical strategies to enhance your horse’s well-being and performance.

Let’s make the most of winter — together!

– Paula & Sarah 😊
PureEquine & Blackburn Equitation

29/04/2025

📣 We can still offer spaces to people not wishing to bring a horse. You will be able to apply everything you learn to your horse at home.

❄ WINTER RE-SET WORKSHOP SERIES ❄

Workshop One: Know Your Horse - Detecting Problems Before They Escalate

📅 Saturday, May 3rd
📍 Venue: Christchurch RDA Indoor Arena, Curletts Rd, Sockburn, CHCH
💰 Special Introductory Price of only $99! 😮

This full-day workshop (9:30 AM – approx. 4:30 PM) is designed to empower you as a horse owner, giving you the tools to assess your horse’s posture and movement and detect small issues before they become bigger problems. In addition you'll learn some manual therapy techniques to support your horse's comfort, while adding only minutes to your daily Winter routine.

Our goal is to expand your knowledge and understanding of your horse; to help you discover your horse's "normal"; and to hone your observational skills so you can identify when your horse is "not quite right" or in need of professional help.

You’ll walk away with:
✅ A baseline understanding of your horse’s posture and movement, whether you’re a happy hacker or competitive rider.
✅ Improved observation skills to recognise early warning signs before unsoundness or lameness develops.
✅ A time-saving routine that can be easily incorporated into your daily practice.
✅ A manual, so you don't need to worry about remembering everything or taking notes.

⏳ Register using the link below ⬇⬇
https://form.jotform.com/sarahjsb/WinterWorkshops

We're looking forward to seeing you!
- Paula and Sarah 😊

P.S. Keep an eye out for Workshop Two (June 14) - details coming soon. ❄

29/04/2025

Come join us this Saturday!

📣 We can still offer spaces to people not wishing to bring a horse. You will be able to apply everything you learn to your horse at home.

❄ WINTER RE-SET WORKSHOP SERIES ❄

Workshop One: Know Your Horse - Detecting Problems Before They Escalate

📅 Saturday, May 3rd
📍 Venue: Christchurch RDA Indoor Arena, Curletts Rd, Sockburn, CHCH
💰 Special Introductory Price of only $99! 😮

This full-day workshop (9:30 AM – approx. 4:30 PM) is designed to empower you as a horse owner, giving you the tools to assess your horse’s posture and movement and detect small issues before they become bigger problems. In addition you'll learn some manual therapy techniques to support your horse's comfort, while adding only minutes to your daily Winter routine.

Our goal is to expand your knowledge and understanding of your horse; to help you discover your horse's "normal"; and to hone your observational skills so you can identify when your horse is "not quite right" or in need of professional help.

You’ll walk away with:
✅ A baseline understanding of your horse’s posture and movement, whether you’re a happy hacker or competitive rider.
✅ Improved observation skills to recognise early warning signs before unsoundness or lameness develops.
✅ A time-saving routine that can be easily incorporated into your daily practice.
✅ A manual, so you don't need to worry about remembering everything or taking notes.

⏳ Register using the link below ⬇⬇
https://form.jotform.com/sarahjsb/WinterWorkshops

We're looking forward to seeing you!
- Paula and Sarah 😊

P.S. Keep an eye out for Workshop Two (June 14) - details coming soon. ❄

11/04/2025

We've been in the books, matching our knowledge to referenced material to ensure our participants get the right info. Come join us, it'll be informative ✅️

❄ WINTER RE-SET WORKSHOP SERIES: MAY WORKSHOP ALMOST FULL ❄

The theme of the first workshop in our Winter Re-set Series is:
Know Your Horse - Detecting Problems Before They Escalate

We understand how overwhelming it can be, trying to provide the best of care for our horses. Many people learn from their mistakes. But that is often a very slow, expensive and painful experience. Time and again, our hearts go out to very well-meaning horse owners who have found themselves questioning whether their horse is OK... and they don't know where to turn.

We're working hard to help owners avoid some of the common struggles of horse ownership. Our goal is to pass on relevant knowledge that we have spent decades of time and ten of thousands of dollars accumulating.

📣Why Understanding Your Horse’s Conformation and Posture Matters 🐴
Have you ever looked at your horse and wondered if they’re standing or moving correctly? Or why some horses with "perfect" conformation struggle with soundness, while others with less-than-ideal conformation stay strong and functional for years?
Conformation and posture aren’t the same thing—but both play a huge role in your horse’s long-term health, performance, and comfort.

🔹 Conformation cannot be changed. Typically it's what your horse is born with—how their bones and joints are structured.
🔹 Posture is how they use their body—how they stand, move, and compensate for weaknesses or discomfort. Conformation plays a part in this.

Even a well-built horse can develop poor posture due to pain, muscle imbalances, or incorrect training. On the flip side, a horse with less-than-ideal conformation can stay sound if they develop and maintain strong, functional posture.

Signs of Good vs. Problematic Posture
✅ Good Posture:
✔️ Level topline, engaged core.
✔️ Limbs perpendicular to the ground.
✔️ Freedom and regularity in all gaits.

⚠️ Compensatory Posture (Potential Red Flags):
❌ Hollow back or sagging belly.
❌ One shoulder more developed than the other.
❌ Constantly standing under or camped out behind.
❌ Toe-dragging or uneven hoof wear.

Why This Matters
🔹 A horse’s conformation is fixed, but posture is changeable. Recognising postural habits helps you adjust training, saddle fit, and management to help your horse move comfortably and correctly.
🔹 Poor posture leads to compensations that can turn into long-term issues. Catching these early helps prevent soundness problems before they start.
🔹 A strong, well-balanced horse will stay sounder and perform better, whether they’re a happy hacker or a competitive athlete. 🐎

⏳ Be quick!
We are almost at capacity. Bring your horse, or learn from watching others. The price is the same - special introductory offer of $99! 🥳 If you don't bring your horse you can apply everything you learn to your horse at home.

Register using the link below ⬇⬇
https://form.jotform.com/sarahjsb/WinterWorkshops
We're looking forward to seeing you!
- Paula and Sarah 😊

09/04/2025

I'm lucky to have AWESOME clients but you might not know who they are because I keep a confidential service. My social media Coach hates it because it means I don't share examples to showcase my work which apparently is a key marketing opportunity ;-p sorry Nicole Martin

But when one of my AWESOME clients gives me a shout out, I reckon thats not breaking confidentiality ;)

Thank you Katie! I love being on the Fitzsimons Equestrian Team. You work so hard & the proof is in the width of the ribbons your ponies are regularly wearing.

Katie is quiet about her achievements but she has educated & developed each of her steeds, two of whom are homebred. She has just picked up accolades from the recent Syncroflex Festival Future Stars, Crawford Hill South Island Dressage Champs including the Nicola Mahey Memorial Trophy for Level 4 Pony all on the back of HOY wide ribbons. One day at HOY required 4 riding attire changes in as many hours!

Katie offers ridden lessons if you're looking to make progress in your riding. Being a young person she keeps it fresh & fun!

07/04/2025

Great colab by Sarah & Sophie this month!

** All spaces have now been filled, keep an eye out for next month's Social Club ** 🤗 April Poles Plus Social Club 🤗

I am so excited to bring you the first Social Club date and thrilled to be collaborating with Horse And Rider Physio-Sophie Hargreaves this month at Dunstan Horsefeeds NEC - Christchurch 😍

This will be a monthly social club open to all levels, abilities and disciplines with the aim of getting riders socialising in and out of the saddle in a fun supportive environment 😊

🌟 Details on flyer plus additional information below ⤵️

Cost for polework and fitness workshop combined
NEC Members $43
Non members $65

This includes ⤵️

➡️ 30min group polework session
➡️ 3 max per group.
Group times
9.00
9.30
10.00 * Taken
10.30
12.45 * Taken
1.15
Grouped by ability or friends!

Please let me know when booking what group level you would like to join or if you have a group of friends wanting a time slot ⤵️

** Starting Out - Mainly walk and trot poles. Great for first timers to Poles Plus and young / green horses.

** Progressive - Walk, trot and canter poles. For those who are confident trotting in a group environment.

** Inhand only - Suitable for everyone including young / green horses.

➡️ Group fitness/balance workshop with Sophie Hargreaves starts at 11.15 at the club rooms.
Bring a Swiss ball and a mat or rug!
Some Swiss balls can be provided with prior notice.

➡️ Lunch break after fitness with
Tea/Coffee and Cake provided ☕🍰

➡️ 📷 Kristal Merry Photography will be attending 😍

🌟 For anyone wanting to attend without a horse and take part in the fitness workshop with Sophie Hargreaves the cost will be $20.
Coffee and cake included 😊

🌟 Sophie Hargreaves will also be available for private sessions on the day,
On or off horse.
Bookings for these private sessions need to be made directly with Sophie by DM or call 0211437632.

😊 Please let me know if you have any questions about the day or if you would like to book any of these options please DM or call 021848166
Sarah