---

🐎 

From a sometimes-anxious rider, a horseback riding instructor with over 20 years of experience and a coach

 

Anxiety in horseback riding is more common than many people think — and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. I know this both from personal experience as a rider who has felt anxious at times, and from decades of teaching children, teens, and adults how to ride.

Today, as a coach, I combine my understanding of horse behavior with emotional awareness techniques to help riders feel safer, more confident, and more connected in the saddle.

 

Here are five powerful tips I’ve found helpful — both for myself and for the many riders I’ve worked with.

---

1. Understand the Horse — Really Understand It

Some people still say horses carry us on their backs because they’re “stupid.” In my 50 years with horses, I’ve seen the exact opposite: horses carry us because they’re incredibly intelligent and deeply social beings.

Horses are herd animals. That means they’re wired for cooperation and connection — just like us. Once a horse learns that part of this cooperation involves allowing a human to ride, most horses accept this willingly and gracefully.

So unless you’re riding a young or untrained horse, you can trust that your horse likely knows its job — and is doing it because it wants to work with you, not against you.

Pro tip: If you ever feel uncertain about your horse's comfort or behavior, check for physical issues. A simple belly lift test (which your trainer can demonstrate) can help detect tension or pain. If your horse has spooked in unusual ways or if you've had an accident, it’s always worth having their back and neck checked by a professional.

---

2. Riding Is Both Trust and Leadership

Horseback riding is a balance of two things: trusting and leading.

Trust comes when you feel safe — with your horse, with your equipment, and with your own abilities. Leadership, on the other hand, comes with experience and confidence.

Even if you’re just starting out and can’t “lead” yet in the technical sense, you can start practicing what I call inner leadership — that quiet self-assurance that says: “I know where I’m going.” Whether you’re riding from A to B in the arena or heading out on a trail, the horse feels your intention.

Ride forward, not with hesitation. Horses pick up on energy — they feel more secure when you ride with clarity and purpose.

---

3. Breathe — The Most Powerful Tool You Have

Breathing is the simplest and most effective tool you have to calm your nervous system — and your horse’s.

Deep belly breathing signals safety to your body and to the horse. It grounds you, brings your awareness into the moment, and stops the spiral of anxious thoughts.

Try this:

• Inhale through your nose for a count of 4

• Exhale through your mouth for a count of 5

• Gradually build up to inhaling for 6 steps of the walk, and exhaling for 8 steps

Do this before you get on, and while you ride — especially in the walk. Even a deep yawn can reset your nervous system. Yawning actually stops mental overthinking and creates instant calm.

---

4. Set an Intention — Even a Small One

What is your intention when you ride?

You don't need to have lofty goals. Your intention can be as simple as: "I want to enjoy five peaceful minutes in the saddle." Or: "I want to leave my workday behind and feel connected to something bigger than myself."

Horseback riding is a unique experience. The horse carries you, but also moves you — and you need your own strength and awareness to match that movement. It’s a beautiful dance. A former partner once said to me, “Only flying is better.” But I believe riding is even more special — because you’re not alone. You’re in connection with another being.

So the next time you ride, ask yourself:
What do I want to feel? What do I want to leave behind?

---

5. Raise Your Vibration — Feel the Love

And lastly, raise your emotional energy.

Feel love and gratitude — for the horse, for the people who help make your riding possible, and for yourself, for showing up despite your fear. This emotional shift can change everything.

Horses are exquisitely sensitive. When you show up with a heart full of compassion, trust, and openness, they feel it. And they respond.

Even just a few minutes in the saddle with this mindset can bring more joy, confidence, and connection than you might expect.

---

Final Thoughts

Overcoming horseback riding anxiety isn’t about “being brave” or pushing through fear. It’s about understanding yourself, understanding your horse, and learning to move together in trust.

Start small. Breathe deep. Set clear intentions. And never forget to celebrate every little step forward — because it’s all part of the journey.

---

 

Would you like more personal support? I offer online coaching in English and German to help you feel more confident in the saddle — no matter your experience level.
👉 Contact me for a free discovery call – I’d love to support you.