Help, I’m Afraid to Get On My Horse
Fear of mounting your horse can be daunting, but with preparation and strategy, you can overcome it and build confidence. Here are practical steps to help you feel secure and in control before and after getting on.
1. Start with Groundwork
Groundwork is essential for assessing your horse’s energy and responsiveness. Before mounting:
- Lunge Your Horse: Walk, trot, and canter your horse on the lunge line to ensure they’re relaxed and attentive.
- Check Transitions: Smooth transitions on the lunge signal that your horse is calm and ready for riding. If your horse bucks or resists, take more time to work on relaxation.
- Assess Both Directions: Lunge evenly on both sides to spot any asymmetries or stiffness.
2. Practice Bending on the Ground
Before mounting, teach your horse to respond to rein pressure:
- Bend Their Neck: Use gentle rein pressure to ask for a bend, ensuring the corresponding hind leg steps under and across.
- Emergency Stop: This groundwork exercise is the foundation of a “one-rein stop,” an essential safety tool for controlling your horse under saddle.
3. Mount with Confidence
When it’s time to get on:
- Take Charge Immediately: Avoid perching quietly and hoping for the best. Instead, sit deep in the saddle and be in a more secure position.
- Engage Your Horse: Ask for light bending and ensure your horse responds to rein and leg aids. This establishes communication and keeps your horse focused.
4. Get Moving
Forward motion is your best safety tool:
- Encourage Forward Movement: Keep your horse walking forward. A moving horse is less likely to spook or misbehave.
- Stay Active: Avoid letting your horse stand still for too long, or deciding where to walk, as this can lead to tension or distraction.
5. Build Confidence Over Time
If you’re still nervous:
- Start Small: Ride in a familiar, enclosed area.
- Seek Support: Have a trainer, friend, or ground person nearby for added security.
- Celebrate Progress: Every positive ride builds trust and confidence.
With preparation and a proactive mindset, you’ll feel more secure and ready to enjoy your rides. Groundwork, clear communication, and forward motion are your allies. Good luck, and remember: you’ve got this!
Happy riding,
Amelia
