Feel Like the Worst Rider at the Barn? Some Suggestions to Help!

It's easy for us to beat ourselves up - in our tasks at home, at work, and even at the barn. Spending time with a horse should be a safe place and sanctuary, but we can sometimes feel like we don't measure up to other riders. Here are some thoughts and suggestions.

When you feel like the worst horseback rider, focus on building confidence by being kind to yourself and taking small, manageable steps. Work with your trainer on specific, short-term goals, and consider going back to basics like grooming and ground work to rebuild your confidence from the ground up. Remind yourself why you love riding, and remember that feeling nervous is normal; it doesn't make you a bad rider.

Strategies for building confidence

• Be kind to yourself: Acknowledge that it's normal to feel scared or anxious, especially after a fall or a bad experience. Don't beat yourself up over perceived failures, and remember that patience is key.
• Go back to basics: Sometimes the best way to move forward is to take a step back. Spend time on the ground with your horse to rebuild your confidence from the ground up. This can include mucking stalls, grooming, and cleaning tack while your horse is present.
• Focus on short-term goals: Work with your trainer to set a specific goal for a short period, like two to three weeks. Focusing on one or two skills at a time can prevent frustration and help you see progress.
• Ride more reliable horses: If possible, spend some time on a very calm, reliable horse to regain your comfort and confidence before moving back to more challenging ones.
• Change your routine: On days when you're feeling particularly anxious, change your riding plan. Instead of the original agenda, do something you both feel confident doing, like a relaxed ride in a field.
• Focus on partnership: Work on the relationship with your horse. This can include rewarding them for good behavior, staying soft and calm, and communicating clearly, which can lead to a better partnership.

What to do during a ride

• Pause and reset: If you feel anxiety building, stop what you are doing, take a few slow breaths, and then start again from a calm place.
• Ride with a relaxed posture: Keep your reins loose when appropriate and focus on a relaxed, soft posture to avoid making your horse more anxious.
• Practice what you know: If you feel uncomfortable with a certain maneuver, stop and work on something you are already confident doing. This helps you and your horse feel successful and builds confidence for both of you.

When to seek help

• Consider a clinic: A clinic can be a great way to gain confidence by riding with a new group of people in a structured environment.
• Discuss with your trainer: Have an open conversation with your trainer about how you're feeling. They can help you adjust your lessons and set realistic goals for you and your horse.
• Find a mentor: Don't be afraid to reach out to other riders for help. You don't have to go this alone. They may even feel the same way! Riding in partnership with others will help build confidence and friendships.

It's important to enjoy your time at the barn and we hope these suggestions help. Have more ideas? Reach out to us at info@equineinfoexchange.com.

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