For some, heading off to a lesson, to camp, a clinic or a competition is a regular part of their lives with horses, for others it is something they feel nervous about. We all get anxious about something and if you are already nervous about the actual lesson or riding, then the additional overwhelm of getting ready and travelling can feel like an added pressure.
We talk regularly in our blogs and podcasts on confidence about controlling what is in your control and keeping things manageable. One of the best way to manage those nerves for most people is to be organised. Being prepared is key to giving yourself less to worry about.
Begin by making sure that you and your horse are fit enough for your event. Ideally this is something you will have considered weeks or months ahead of time. Our veterinary approved fitness plan is a great start point for getting your horse fit.
There are so many fitness programmes it can be hard to know where to start. Our advice – begin with rider specific workouts from recognised professionals, that target the muscles and levels of fitness you need to be at your best.
We recognise what a huge part rider fitness and strength is to your confidence – take a look at the rider fitness programmes; there are plans to take you from your couch to hacking fit, or hacking fit to event fit and everything in between.
All of our workouts are designed and demonstrated by Lauren from Equestrian Fitness Scotland. Lauren is a Personal Trainer, rides herself and uses her expertise to help riders of all levels including the Elite Scottish Equestrian Performance Squad and of course our EquiTeam members.
Turn out
If you are going to a competition then it is quite normal to feel pressured about turning your horse out well.
Get ahead of the game by practising ahead of the day. EquiTeam’s founders are all former professional grooms and alongside the series on turnout by world famous groom, Alan Davies the Horse Care with EquiTeam has everything you could need from turning your horse out from a muddy mess and humane mane tidying, to the finer points like blending clipping lines and plaiting like Alan Davies.
If you are going to plait your horse and have never done it before, you will probably find it quite a challenge which is why we suggest having a practice once a week for a few weeks before your event, to find the best way that works for you.
Look after your transport
Trailer maintenance is something else that needs to be taken care of ahead of time too. We have a brilliant video and accompanying checklist download that will help you to make sure your trailer is safe and roadworthy.
As it starts to get closer to your event, take a look at our packing lists and our blog on preparation and make sure you have everything you are going to need. If you are competing or heading to a camp or clinic check the rules to see if there are tack and attire rules or suggestions.
If you are well practised in your routines for getting ready, when it comes to the day of setting off you can set yourself small goals along the way and just keep doing the next thing – Get out of bed… feed your horse… brush your horse etc until before you know if you will be getting on your horse with a smile on your face about to make the most of your lesson or competition.
Most importantly of all – surround yourself with a supportive network of riders and all of a sudden you won’t feel intimidated – you will be surrounded by other equestrians who just want to do their best and enjoy their day too.
EquiTeam x
