Ifa Simmonds is an equestrian fitness and performance coach with over a decade of experience helping riders build stronger, more symmetrical bodies in and out of the saddle. He is the founder of the Equestrian Fitness Academy (EFA), created after recognizing a major gap in the equestrian world. His goal is to bridge the gap between equestrian performance and sports science. He noticed and wanted to support the specific needs of riders to stay healthy, confident, and competitive long-term.

Ifa specializes in improving rider movement quality, core strength, balance, and mobility through functional, rider-specific training programs designed to enhance performance while minimizing the risk of injury. His coaching approach is grounded in sports science, biomechanics, and evidence-based training principles, bridging modern sports performance research with the real-world demands of riding. At the core of his methodology are four key pillars: stability, suppleness, strength, and stamina, which is a framework that guides riders toward better body control, improved position, and clearer communication in the saddle.

Working across both English and Western disciplines, Ifa has coached a wide range of riders, from trail riders and adult amateurs to top-level competitors and coaches in dressage, eventing, reining, hunter/jumper, and western pleasure disciplines. Drawing on education and continuous certifications in functional fitness, yoga, and Pilates, he blends scientific training concepts with practical tools that help riders move with greater collection, strength, and fluidity.

A sought-after clinician, writer, and presenter, Ifa shares his expertise with equestrian organizations worldwide and continues to advocate for a more educated, inclusive, and athlete-centered future in horse sport. His work has been featured on leading platforms, including Horse Illustrated and Noelle Floyd, positioning him as a trusted voice in the growing conversation around rider wellness, performance, and longevity.

Because of the Horse...

I’ve learned that true strength isn’t forceful; it’s balanced, patient, and consistently present. It's really about awareness. Horses don’t respond to what we say we’re doing; they respond to what we actually bring to the saddle. Strength affects our balance, energy, control, and intentions, something horses do a great job of reflecting.