Advice for building confidence?

E

erin.

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Just wondering if anyone has any advice for building confidence on a horse?

I haven't ridden properly in a couple of years and I really miss riding, I don't have my own horse but I do have access to a friend's horse.

Would really appreciate any help, thank you!
 
I totally know where you're coming from :)

I've never been a 'nervous rider', but I know for a fact, it'll take me maybe twice as long as someone else to feel confident about something. I'm just back in the saddle after a 3 year break. Do things at YOUR OWN PACE. I found so often that when I was pushed to do something but someone else, I went back the way instead of forward. I think a good place to start would be some lessons on a school master, with an understanding teacher. Take your time, what's the rush? If you only feel like having a walk and a trot, work on that and improve your position. When given enough time, I can do whatever I want, so long as it's on my terms. I can't stress enough, it's about the little things. Don't let anyone else 'bully' you into anything. Until you're totally confident with something, don't move onto the next.
 
BeBopTalulah said:
I totally know where you're coming from :)

I've never been a 'nervous rider', but I know for a fact, it'll take me maybe twice as long as someone else to feel confident about something. I'm just back in the saddle after a 3 year break. Do things at YOUR OWN PACE. I found so often that when I was pushed to do something but someone else, I went back the way instead of forward. I think a good place to start would be some lessons on a school master, with an understanding teacher. Take your time, what's the rush? If you only feel like having a walk and a trot, work on that and improve your position. When given enough time, I can do whatever I want, so long as it's on my terms. I can't stress enough, it's about the little things. Don't let anyone else 'bully' you into anything. Until you're totally confident with something, don't move onto the next.
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Wot she said!!

Good luck and enjoy :)
 
Have you read Perfect Confidence by Kelly Marks, packed with lots of good ideas. I read it after a dip in confidence following a fall and found it very useful and an enjoyable book to read.
 
Make sure you have a pretty solid position. Either get some lessons from a biomechanic coach, or buy a Mary Wanless DVD (one of her early ones). Even if you don't totally buy into the whole RWYM thing, it helps you understand that your upper legs controls the stability of your trotting, turning, etc and how important core strength is, how to use it - and gives you something to play about with.

Lots of things have helped me regain confidence, but having a secure seat is pretty much at the top of the list!!
 
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