Wait…can you really learn to ride online?? Did you know there are some awesome benefits to learning to ride online? Well, I have to admit, when I first started my YouTube Channel six years ago, I didn’t believe I could help SO many people with their riding!
The truth is, YES, you can learn to ride online. AND, there may be some aspects of online learning that make it better than in-person lessons! So, now you may be wondering what are the benefits of learning to ride online? Here are five benefits of learning to ride online:
- Accessibility is optimal. No matter where you live, with my online programs, you can access high-quality training without having to drive long distances with your horse. Content is available at your convenience; you can watch videos at any time!
- Mirror neurons. These neurons in your brain fire the same whether you are actively participating in an activity or watching someone else perform that same activity. This means that when you watch training videos and intentionally focus on the rider and what they are doing, your brain will simulate the same patterns as if you were performing the same actions as the rider you are watching!
- You have to take responsibility. When training online, you don’t have someone there when you’re riding to help you with your mistakes. It is up to you to identify training issues, take initiative, do the research, learn the content, take it to the barn, and then come back to the computer and ask questions. This makes online training a very proactive way to learn to ride.
- Community support. Studies show that you are way more committed and successful when you have support! Amelia’s Dressage Club Facebook group is a supportive, encouraging community where you can ask questions and get constructive feedback on your riding progress.
- Theory of training. It can be hard to learn enough theory when taking in-person lessons because you have so much to focus on as the rider! I try to create my content to teach theory of the training scale as well as the theory of how horses learn. Theory is a huge part of learning the why in your training.
- Bonus! Training online means that you might not have a coach in-person to help you, but that gives you the opportunity to film yourself riding. Taking video is a great way to see things that you can’t feel when you ride. Video is such an excellent tool, and with today’s technology, there are many options to find a way to film yourself even if you are alone.
And, thanks to all of you, there’s proof that you can improve your riding through online training. I’m dedicated to helping riders like you improve your riding through my free content and structured paid courses. I’m so happy to have you here, and if you haven’t already, please join Amelia’s Dressage Club on Facebook and share your successes in your riding! I look forward to helping you on your journey to find that ride you love!