Julie Leiken

Julie Leiken is an American rider biomechanics coach, Pilates instructor, and dressage trainer based in Boulder, Colorado. She is the founder of the EquiBalance Method, an approach that integrates classical dressage, Pilates, and functional movement to improve rider position, balance, and communication with the horse. With more than 30 years of equestrian experience, she primarily coaches riders to become more effective through better body awareness rather than relying solely on horse-training techniques.

Professional Background

Julie has spent over three decades combining her experience in classical riding with movement education. She developed the EquiBalance Method after recognizing that many riding challenges stem from the rider's posture, asymmetry, stability, and movement patterns rather than the horse itself.

Her work focuses on helping riders improve their effectiveness in the saddle through off-horse and mounted exercises rooted in Pilates and biomechanics.

Coaching Philosophy

Julie believes that:

* Rider balance directly influences horse balance.

* Soft, effective aids begin with a stable, organized body.

* Improving the rider often leads to significant improvements in the horse's way of going.

* Sustainable performance comes from body awareness, symmetry, and efficient movement rather than strength alone.

Specialties

Her coaching focuses on:

* Rider biomechanics

* Classical dressage principles

* Pilates for equestrians

* Rider symmetry and alignment

* Core stability

* Seat effectiveness

* Balance and posture

* Improving contact and connection

* Horse-and-rider harmony

* Functional movement training

The EquiBalance Method

The EquiBalance Method is Julie's signature training system, blending:

* Classical dressage concepts

* Pilates-based movement

* Functional anatomy

* Rider posture analysis

* Core stabilization

* Mobility and flexibility training

* Exercises designed to transfer directly to riding performance

The method is intended for riders across disciplines, with a particular emphasis on dressage.

Teaching Experience

Julie works with:

* Adult amateur riders

* Dressage riders

* Competitive equestrians

* Recreational riders

* Instructors seeking improved rider biomechanics

She offers:

* Private coaching

* Online education

* Rider assessments

* Pilates instruction

* Educational articles and videos

Areas of Expertise

* Rider biomechanics

* Classical dressage

* Pilates

* Functional movement

* Core strength for riders

* Rider balance

* Position correction

* Horse-and-rider communication

* Injury prevention through improved movement patterns