Horseback riding can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but for those who lack confidence in the saddle, it can also be intimidating and overwhelming. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, feeling confident on horseback is essential for enjoying the ride. In this blog post, I’ll share five tips for horseback riders who lack confidence to help gain confidence in the saddle.
Work on your mindset.
The first step to gaining confidence in the saddle is to work on your mindset. Negative self-talk can sabotage your confidence, so try to shift your thoughts to a more positive outlook. Visualize yourself riding confidently and successfully, and use positive affirmations to reinforce your beliefs. If you’re struggling with anxiety or fear, consider seeking the help of a therapist or coach who can help you work through your feelings and develop coping strategies.
Build a strong foundation.
You need a foundation, but your horse also needs a foundation. I started back at the beginning with Goose. We started on the ground. The better she got on the ground the more confident I felt in my ability to handle her. Also the more confident I got on the ground, the more it translated to confidence under saddle as well. Once you’re riding, having a strong foundation in riding basics such as balance, posture, and position can give you a sense of security in the saddle. Practice exercises such as lunging or riding without stirrups to improve your skills and confidence. Take the time to work with a skilled instructor who can help you refine your technique and build your confidence.
Choose a reliable horse.
If you’re lacking confidence in the saddle, riding a safe and reliable horse can make all the difference. It really can. I don’t know that Goose was the BEST choice I could have made for a first horse, but being able to really take it one step at a time has created a great bond between us. It really is a good idea when you’re first riding and gaining confidence to choose a horse that you trust and feel comfortable with. If you’re new to riding, look for a calm and gentle horse with a steady temperament. Riding a horse that is unpredictable or difficult can erode your confidence, so make sure to choose a horse that matches your skill level and personality.
Take small steps.
Taking small steps towards your riding goals can help you build confidence and improve your skills over time. Start with simple exercises and gradually increase the difficulty as you become more comfortable in the saddle. For example, if you’re working on trotting, start by practicing in a small, enclosed arena before moving on to open spaces or more challenging terrain. Celebrate your progress and remember that every small step counts towards your ultimate goal. This is what I’ve been doing with Goose. We started in a small space, and now we have worked our way to the outdoor arena, and even out onto the road. Each small step has added up and we just reached 70 hours logged riding!
Seek support.
Finally, don’t be afraid to seek support from other riders, trainers, or coaches. Join a local riding club or online community where you can connect with other riders who share your goals and struggles. I love the Warwick Schiller community on Facebook. It really helps to find a horse community that shares the same values of horsemanship as you. Even joining an online “challenge” can really help. I am currently working through Michael Lyon’s “horsemanship challenge”. It’s given me the extra push I needed to actually get out and ride my horse. I’ve found when I’m not confident in what I’m doing, sometimes it’s easier to just skip it than get out there and do it. A community can really help you stay motivated to work through the tough stuff at the beginning as you gain confidence. Working with a skilled instructor or coach can also provide valuable guidance and support as you work towards building your confidence in the saddle.
In conclusion, gaining confidence in the saddle takes time and effort, but with the right mindset, foundation, horse, approach, and support, you can become a more confident rider. Remember to be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and stay focused on your goals. With persistence and dedication, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
If you’re an equestrian looking to boost your confidence and motivation in the saddle, then don’t miss out on our printable affirmation cards featuring 40 positive affirmations for equestrians. These affirmations are designed to help you stay focused, confident, and motivated, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. So why not head over to our etsy shop now and start incorporating these powerful affirmations into your daily routine? With a positive mindset and a little bit of practice, you can achieve anything you set your mind to in the saddle. So don’t wait, take action today and start transforming your riding experience with the power of positive affirmations!
