Empowering Riders Through Technology.

At the forefront of modern equestrian coaching, I combine expert guidance with cutting-edge technology to help riders develop alignment, stability, strength & control. The foundation for optimal performance.

About Me

I'm Nicky Caden — a Senior Accredited Professional Coach in Complete Horsemanship with a lifelong passion for helping riders unlock their full potential, both in and out of the saddle.

With decades of experience teaching across all levels, I specialise in blending traditional equestrian coaching with innovative tools like the Racewood simulator, to bring clarity, precision, and feel into every rider’s journey. Whether I’m working with grassroots riders or performance-focused competitors, my goal is always the same: to create confident, independent riders who understand the “why” behind the “what.”

As a certified Franklin Method Equestrian trainer, a qualified gym instructor, and a believer in functional biomechanics, my approach is holistic and rider-centred. I coach with intention, always working to meet riders where they are and move them forward with purpose — whether that’s through improving position, refining contact, or developing feel.

At the heart of my coaching is connection — not just between horse and rider, but between knowledge, experience, and personal growth.

Testimonials

  • I had a fantastic and enlightening session with Nicky today at Racewood using the mechanical horse. I knew that I was wonky somewhere but didn't know exactly where or how to correct it. Nicky spotted it immediately and was able to help me find a more balanced position and clearer communication. I didn't think it was possible for me to confuse a mechanical horse but I certainly did in the beginning 😆 Nicky's passion for what she does radiates out of her. She is kind, compassionate, friendly and funny and motivated to help you achieve your goals. The simulator shows you exactly where your balance, contact and legs are and Nicky comes equipped with Franklin balls, resistance bands, weights and a ton of experience to help you find a new muscle memory. I rode every version of every gait and had a go with the jumping function at the end which definitely flagged up some more stuff for next time. If you're thinking about booking, then do it. you won't be disappointed 😀 Suzie

  • Cannot thank Nicky enough for her support & expertise over recent months as I started riding again after a long break. The skills I was able to transfer after just one session on the simulator were very clear, and my instructor was very impressed. The simulator compliments real life riding in the arena hugely, without any stress to your horse. A very worthy investment for a novice picking up the reins again. Would recommend! Jo Raftery

  • Nicky is a very, very experienced and professional coach. We have been training together for several months, starting from the simulator sessions and finally with my Henry as well. Her simulator sessions in Racewood are tailored to your needs and focused on developing skills which you can use directly whilst riding a horse. What is important is that her experience as a horse riding trainer and broad knowledge of anatomy and human body movement creates a perfect combination - her instructions are very clear and focused on building muscle memory very fast. Additionally, lessons on Henry were fantastic as well. The lesson's time is never wasted and always full with diverse exercises. What is important is that Nicky uses many facilities and can teach in different surroundings, indoor and outdoor arenas, x country, jumping courses, etc. Couldn't recommend more. Agnieszka Tomtzyk

  • Been going to Nicky once a month for 3 months and her coaching on the simulator has made a huge difference. Experimenting with how I can change old muscle memory & being aware of what my body is doing. She’s a very patient teacher and really wants you to succeed. Allows you time to experiment and helps you figure out where the braces are. I can’t recommend her enough. Karen Barker

Dressage Pro

The Racewood Dressage Pro Simulator

The Racewood Dressage Pro is the most realistic dressage simulator ever developed—and it’s the one I use to help riders fine-tune their position, feel, and performance at every level.

With a fully motorised neck and slimline leg sensors, the Dressage Pro responds to your aids just like a real horse would. It picks up subtle changes in rein contact, leg pressure, and seat balance, and shows this feedback in real time—helping you understand exactly how your body is influencing the horse.

You can:

Ride school movements from novice up to Grand Prix level

Practise tests with accurate arena dimensions and letters

Work on seat stability, core control, and rider symmetry

Improve contact, straightness, transitions and lateral work

Ride in walk, trot or canter—or simply hack in a relaxing virtual environment

This is an incredible tool for building feel, correcting long-standing habits, or just gaining confidence in a focused, no-pressure setting. Whether you’re working on your own riding or learning how to coach others, the Dressage Pro gives you accurate, immediate insight.

As a certified Franklin Method® Equestrian coach and qualified gym instructor, I combine biomechanical feedback with functional off-horse exercises and targeted simulator sessions. This is what Empowering Riders Through Technology really looks like in action.

Eventer

The Racewood Eventer Simulator

The Racewood Eventer is the most advanced mechanical horse simulator available—and it’s the one I use to coach riders of all levels through dressage, show-jumping and cross-country skills in a safe, supportive environment.

With sensors that track your rein contact, leg position, seat balance and more, the Eventer gives you instant feedback on how you’re riding. It’s ideal for building confidence, improving feel, and refining technique—whether you’re a total beginner, a nervous rider, or training towards competition goals.

The Eventer can:

Walk, trot and canter just like a real horse

Help you practise lateral work, transitions, or full dressage tests

Take you through jumping courses, bounce grids and cross-country lines

Be set to beginner, intermediate or advanced levels depending on your experience

It’s like riding the ultimate schoolmaster—with the added bonus of feedback screens, no weather worries, and as many re-rides as you need to get it right.

Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence, improve your technique, or simply learn more about how you ride, my sessions on the Racewood Eventer are tailored to help you progress. This is where Empowering Riders Through Technology really comes to life.

Arena

Simulator + Arena Session on Your Own Horse

1. Pre‑Session on the Simulator

Start with a focused riding session using the Racewood simulator. This allows you to:

  • Isolate key skills—balance, posture, rein and leg aids—without distraction from a live horse.

  • Receive instant, data-driven feedback on seat stability, symmetry, and co-ordination

  • Build rider fitness in a safe, repeatable environment before moving to your horse

2. Seamless Transition to Your Own Horse

Immediately after your simulator session, you ride in our arena on your own horse. Here’s why it’s effective:

  • Your muscle memory is fresh, making it easier to apply technical improvements directly with your horse.

  • Live feedback loop – your horse’s responses validate your simulator work and help refine timing, aids, and connection.

  • Comprehensive training flow – we move from biomechanical precision on the simulator to real-world riding dynamics in a single session.

3. Arena Setup & Hire

You’ll then enjoy a fully-booked arena session to consolidate your learning