Will-oh! FAQ
FAQs -- About Will-oh! the Dressage Pro Horse Simulator
What is Will-oh!?
She’s our very own Racewood Dressage Pro—a high-fidelity riding simulator that measures seat, leg, and rein use and gives real-time feedback for faster, safer learning.
When does she arrive?
She’s on order. Join the waitlist and we’ll message you the moment sessions open.
Who is she for?
Beginners building confidence, returning riders, juniors/adults, and competitors polishing position, transitions, and test accuracy. Will-oh! is suitable for children through adults, and her upgraded technology includes sensors that can read input from even our smallest riders with shorter legs.
Is she like other simulators?
Will-oh! is the latest generation of Racewood technology. Compared to earlier models, she has more advanced sensors, improved adjustability, and delivers smoother, more responsive movement. These upgrades make her more accurate and accessible for all riders, offering clearer feedback and a more realistic feel.
What gaits and movements can she do?
Walk, trot, and canter plus a wide range of lateral and advanced dressage movements—leg yield, shoulder-in, travers/renvers, half-pass, and higher-level work like piaffe, passage, canter pirouettes, and flying changes. Coaches can select exercises directly in the program.
What about Western riders?
Absolutely—balance is balance. Will-oh! helps Western riders refine seat/hip alignment, quiet hands, even rein feel, and precise, rhythmic leg cues. She’s great for confidence, return-to-ride, and position tuning for Western disciplines. We are looking into getting a western saddle set up too!
What happens in a first session?
A short set-up and comfort ride, followed by a guided assessment using the SIM’s built-in metrics. You’ll gain insight on how you sit at various gaits, your balance, rein pressure, and more—then move into a few focused exercises. You’ll leave with a quick summary and suggested next steps.
Can I bring my coach?
Yes, with prior approval. Coaches are welcome to observe or participate in your session—just let us know in advance so we can set everything up.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes—up to ~224 lb (≈102 kg).
Is she suitable if I’m nervous or returning from a break?
Yes. The consistent movement and real-time feedback are ideal for rebuilding balance and confidence at your pace.
Is she good for fitness or rehab?
Definitely. Will-oh! helps build core strength, balance, and coordination. Around the world, simulators are used in rider fitness and therapeutic programs because they provide consistent, low-risk movement for conditioning and rehabilitation.
Can I use my own saddle?
We use the simulator’s saddle so her sensors read correctly. If you have a special request, contact us and we’ll advise. In short, typically we can use your saddle, but no metal irons. Let us know if you want to use your own saddle.
What should I wear?
Riding or athletic clothes, clean boots, and a riding helmet (optional). Gloves are optional too. (No spurs on the SIM, please.)
What kind of feedback do I get?
You’ll see seat balance (left/right & front/back), a live center-of-pressure target with a 30-second history, rein contact (left/right over time), and leg position and leg-aid timing.
Do I get something to take home?
Yes—your coach can print or email a one-page summary with screenshots, notes, and homework.
Can I book her for a group or clinic?
Absolutely. We offer clinics for barns, clubs, and teams. Riders can book back-to-back sessions, and group members can learn by observing others ride.
Can non-riders try her?
Yes! Will-oh! is a safe and fun way to experience what riding feels like. Parents, partners, and kids love trying her to better understand the balance and skill riding requires.
Can I buy a gift certificate?
Yes—gift certificates are available and make a unique gift for horse lovers, returning riders, or anyone curious about trying the SIM.
What’s your cancellation policy?
24-hour notice to reschedule or cancel, please.
Where is Will-oh! located?
At Willow & Withers Stables in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. We’re easy to reach from Halifax and surrounding areas—book a session and stay to enjoy the Valley!
Book a Ride with Will-oh!
While we’re still waiting on the exact arrival date for Will-oh!, we do know that she’ll be up and running by December 1st — and we couldn’t be more excited!
So… we’re opening up December bookings starting now! If you’ve been waiting to ride, train, or just experience this incredible technology, now’s your chance to grab a spot.
Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer — and get ready to meet Will-oh!


Coaching Opportunity
We are accepting Coaches to train on Will-oh!

Will-oh! is Nova Scotia’s first equestrian simulator -- offering coaches a safe, innovative, and highly effective way to help riders improve.
Will-oh! mirrors the movement of a real horse while delivering real-time feedback on posture, balance, and biomechanics. Coaches can walk alongside at any gait, fine-tuning a rider’s position in ways simply not possible on a live horse.
We’re now building a network of Approved Will-oh! Coaches who want to integrate simulator sessions into their own programs. With training and certification, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to:
- Offer your riders faster progress through real-time assessment.
- Add a safe, stress-free environment to your coaching toolkit.
- Differentiate your services with rare, cutting-edge technology.
- Combine simulator lessons with real-horse training for maximum impact.
Looking for a new home for your horse?
We would love to hear from you.
Please reach out to melanie@willowandwithers.ca .
Or click the contact button below.
