Doina Fischer

Doina Fischer is an internationally recognized classical dressage trainer, Working Equitation instructor, judge, and clinician with more than 30 years of professional experience. Originally from Switzerland, she is currently based in southern Spain (Costa del Sol) and teaches internationally through her business, Classical Riding Reflection. Her work combines classical dressage, biomechanics, and Working Equitation, with a strong emphasis on individualized horse development and horse welfare.

Career Background

Doina was born in Switzerland, where she trained and competed through the upper levels under a German-Romanian military trainer. After completing her education, she purchased her own horse and pursued extensive study in classical dressage.

Her international career has taken her to:

* Switzerland

* New York

* Florida

* Brazil

* Spain

Since 2013, she has been based in Europe, teaching clinics, training horses, and judging Working Equitation competitions across multiple countries.

Classical Dressage Education

Doina is:

* Certified in Classical Dressage by Luis Ramos Paul.

* Educated by Spanish classical masters and students of Nuno Oliveira.

* Experienced in both French- and Iberian-influenced classical dressage traditions.

She has also completed:

* German certifications for training young horses.

* Multiple FEI Dressage Judges' Courses.

* Advanced Working Equitation judge education.

Coaching Philosophy

Doina's training philosophy is built on:

* Classical dressage guided by biomechanics.

* Individualized training based on each horse's physical abilities and personality.

* Developing balance before advanced movements.

* Building confidence through patience and clear communication.

* Strengthening horses through gymnastic exercises rather than force.

She emphasizes that riders should ask rather than demand, creating harmony between horse and rider through light, clear aids. Lunging and in-hand work are integral parts of her program to develop balance and musculature before or alongside ridden work.

Coaching Specialties


Her areas of expertise include:

* Classical dressage

* Working Equitation

* Equine biomechanics

* Young horse development

* Retraining horses from other disciplines

* Groundwork

* In-hand work

* Lunging

* Obstacle training

* Rider biomechanics

* FEI-level dressage development

* Horse rehabilitation and muscle development.

Competition & Judging

Doina is an experienced Working Equitation judge, having officiated at national competitions and championships in several countries. She also conducts Working Equitation clinics for riders ranging from beginners to advanced competitors.

In 2020, she was invited to lead a Working Equitation clinic and exhibition during USPRE Week in Wellington, Florida, coaching riders and demonstrating the versatility of PRE horses.

International Teaching

She offers:

* International clinics.

* Mobile instruction.

* Online coaching.

* Intensive training courses.

* Horse training at her Spanish facility.

* Customized educational seminars.

Students may also bring horses to stay for training, with programs tailored to the horse's age, experience, and goals.

Training Services

Through Classical Riding Reflection, Doina provides:

* Dressage instruction.

* Working Equitation training.

* Young horse starting.

* Retraining horses from other disciplines.

* Groundwork and in-hand work.

* Online lessons.

* Horse-and-rider biomechanics assessments.

* Intensive clinics and seminars worldwide.

Teaching Style

Doina's instruction is characterized by:

* A horse-first approach.

* Strong emphasis on biomechanics.

* Individualized lesson planning.

* Practical, progressive exercises.

* Collaboration with veterinarians, osteopaths, and farriers to support the horse's overall health and performance.