Help me learn to hack alone

Firstly, believe in yourself. If you can do it with others you can do it on your own.

Secondly, break it down into baby steps. Just leaving the yard and riding 10m is an achievement.

Then build up the time and pace gradually.

Soon you will be out without giving it a second thought - and enjoying it!!!! I speak from experience, I used to be a quivering wreck in tears. Now I can not wait to get out for a nice ride, just me and my boy.

Remember - YOU CAN DO IT!!!!
 
Sorry to read about your hacking problem.
Just wondered if you could let someone else ride your horse whilst you walk or cycle alongside? Then you can see that all is safe and carry that picture in your mind when it is your turn to ride.
Glad to see the strong support you are getting from other members and I will join them in wishing you luck.
 
I used to get like that but one day I was just able to get on with it. I just had to wait until my head was in the right place.

My sister and my friend both do this on a regular basis- just decide they can't do it. One day they can one day they can't and nothing happens when they do go out on their own!

I promise you, one day you will wake up and want to go hacking and you will do it. Don't bully yourself into it and don't feel bad.

Why don't you cycle your route first so you know what to expect to see on it, and see how you feel when you get back to the yard and tack up and sit on. I also found holding the buckle end and singing christmas carols helped when nerves got me half way round!

I also found jumping or schooling first helped me too!
 
Sing to your horse as you ride!

I got to the point where I felt sick before I hacked IN COMPANY, let alone on my own.

I picked a really beautiful still Autumn day and made up a song to the tune of the Irish national Anthem (with my own lyrics which I won't embarrass myself by repeating here). I sang it over and over again. I think it helped me to breath (always useful) and the vibrations transferred to the Boy, which helped him to relax.

I cried with happiness when we got home. I hack out alone all the time now, even on windy days.

Good luck - you'll make it if you try!
 
Do you take a mobile phone with you? If not then it might help to do so as you are not really on your own then.

I've mentioned this on the post about bolting but will mention again... speak to:

http://www.equestrianconfidence.com/tft.html

Jo worked wonders for my confidence (problems with jumping) years ago and I would recommend having a chat with her. She will help you get to the bottom of why this is happening and what you can do about it.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top