How to Boost Confidence When Horseback Riding

Maybe you've had a bad fall, or maybe you just don't have the fearless attitude toward riding that you had when you were 12, when you're sure your bones must have been made of rubber. But confidence plays a big role in whether you become a skilled horse rider, so here's what you need to do to gain it.

Instructions

1. Stay physically fit. If you've had a bad accident, you may be unable to ride for a while, but you still need to keep your muscles moving for when you can get back in the saddle. If you're limber and toned when you start riding again, you won't be as afraid as you would if you get stiff and sore after five minutes.

2. Learn how to take a fall. You probably knew this years ago; kids fall all the time and get right back on because they have an instinctive sense of keeping relaxed and fearless as they're going down. This is harder for adults, who tense up more when they expect to be injured. Remember that most falls don't cause serious injury.

3. Wear protective equipment. Everyone should wear a helmet while riding, but you might want to consider a chest guard, too.

4. Get back in the saddle as soon as possible. As cliché as it may sound, it's truly the best cure for fear after an accident.

5. Consider any progress as positive. If you can work through your fear, and get in the saddle for only five minutes at first, congratulate yourself. Next time try for 10 minutes. Don't compare yourself to other riders, or even to your own abilities at another point. Be proud of your own progress.

6. Start back slowly, but do start back. If you fell trying to clear a five-foot jump and now you're afraid to attempt a one-foot jump, go back to trotting over poles. Again, keep it simple and don't berate yourself for not being able to do what you think you should. You'll get there, with patience.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that you're responsible for imparting confidence in your horse. It won't do either of you any good to try to take on too much too soon.