Jan Symons: A Trainer of Excellence serving riders and horses

Jan Symons is a renowned Belgian equestrian trainer recognized for his expertise in dressage and show jumping. With a career rich in experience, he has developed a unique training approach focused on the horse’s biomechanics, respect for its natural movement, and seamless communication with the rider. His work has influenced many top-level riders and continues to leave a mark on the equestrian world.

A career built on experience and passion

Since the beginning, Jan Symons had the opportunity to work in a stable in Belgium, where he was responsible for 14 horses. This experience enabled him to develop an in-depth understanding of each horse’s potential and to perfect his training methods. Gradually, he came to specialize in improving the performance of rider-horse couple, with an emphasis on dressage work / flat training and correct movements.

A training philosophy focused on harmony and respect for the horse’s natural movements

Right from the start, Jan Symons stressed the importance of dressage / flat training and communication between rider and horse. In his view, a horse should be encouraged to move freely, without coercive methods, in order to develop its full potential. His approach is based on :

• Respect for the horse’s biomechanics: avoid blockages and muscular compensations that hinder progress.
• Natural progression: allowing the horse to gain muscle and suppleness without forcing it.
• A well-placed rider: an adapted saddle and the right posture facilitate aids and reinforce the connection with the animal.

Collaborations with renowned riders

Throughout his career, Jan Symons has had the honor of working with several renowned international riders, including :
Jos Lansink, Belgian rider and medallist at major international competitions, former coach of the Dutch show jumping team.

• The Philippaerts family, a Belgian equestrian dynasty renowned for its jumping achievements.
• Marlon Módolo Zanotelli, Brazilian show jumper based in Belgium, one of the world’s top 100 riders ranking.
• Erika Lickhammer-Van Helmond, Swedish show jumper.
• These collaborations testify to the quality of his teaching and his ability to adapt his methods to the needs of top-level riders and horses.

A popular trainer and coach

In addition to his stable work, Jan Symons regularly runs show jumping courses, notably as part of the Cavalor training program. His courses are acclaimed by riders for :

• His attention to detail: he adapts each exercise to the specific needs of the rider-horse pair.
• His invaluable technical advice: he helps riders improve their position, aids and feel.
• His caring and effective approach: participants leave with concrete exercises they can apply on a daily basis and during competition.

A lasting impact on horse health and performance

Jan Symons’ approach is not limited to pure performance. By emphasizing respect for the horse and fair riding, he contributes to the longevity of sport horses. A well-trained, well-balanced and well-muscled horse :

• Is less prone to injuries and chronic pain.
• Requires fewer osteopathic or veterinary consultations for muscular blockages or tensions.
• Keeps a calmer mind and a better capacity to learn.

Conclusion

Jan Symons is much more than just a trainer. He is a true dressage trainer and rider at heart and a companion to riders and their horses, helping them to progress with accuracy and respect. His philosophy, based on understanding the horse and improving its natural movement, has made him a key figure in the equestrian world. Thanks to his expertise and prestigious collaborations, he continues to positively influence many riders and contribute to more respectful, high-performance horsemanship.
For several months now, Jan Symons and Macel Sellier have been working together, sharing values and a common philosophy based on respect for the horse and performance. This beautiful collaboration is not limited to training, but also extends to the improvement and creation of new products, aiming for ever greater comfort and efficiency for the rider-horse couple. Jan Symons is much more than just a trainer. He is a true companion for riders and their horses, helping them to progress with accuracy and respect. His philosophy, based on understanding the horse and improving natural movement, has made him a key figure in the equestrian world. Thanks to his expertise and prestigious collaborations, he continues to have a positive influence on many riders, contributing to more respectful and successful horsemanship.

Sources / Webography

• YouTube. (s.d.). Vers un sport plus éthique et plus juste avec Jan Symons https://youtu.be/34UJIpOqmQA
• Horse Show Jumping TV. (s.d.). Jan Symons: A journey in equestrian excellence. https://www.horseshowjumping.tv/en/jan-symons-a-journey-in-equestrian-excellence/
• LEWB. (s.d.). À la découverte d’un coach de haut niveau: Jan Symons lors du stage Cavalor.  https://www.lewb.be/actualites/jumping/decouverte-un-coach-haut-vol-lors-du-stage-cavalor-saut-obstacles-jan-symons
• Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/thegulfequineacademy/posts/jan-symons-trainer-of-the-champions-has-a-very-unique-approach-in-his-training-a/114011414811678/
• Galop.be : Jan Symons: ‘ik zie de paarden nog graag https://www.galop.be/nl/nieuws/artikel/jan-symons-ik-zie-de-paarden-nog-graag
• equnews.be : an Symons: “Dankzij het lesgeven heb ik de paarden beter leren begrijpen…” https://equnews.be/article/hippisch-recht/jan-symmons-dankzij-het-lesgeven-heb-ik-de-paarden-beter-leren-begrijpen