​Frustrated because you’re not getting the partnership or the performance you want from with your horse? Find out what’s getting in the way and 3 ways to you change it ... and enjoy the ride.

Whether your goal is to win ribbons or belt buckles, being able to get a decent canter transition, get over a jump without any drama or enjoy a relaxed walk on the trail, you’re not happy because you’re not getting the results you want.

The problem could be that your horse isn’t getting what he needs from you.

Reduce Horse Riding Frustration

Here are 3 ways you can reduce the frustration you feel – and improve your equine partnership so that you can both enjoy the ride.

1.Consistency Stops Frustration.

Horses feel most secure when they know what to expect. They do best with routine and consistency.

So, being consistent with the routines, boundaries and how you treat him – both on the ground and when riding – goes a long way to helping him feel safe.

Establish routines for tacking up, grooming and warming up. Then, stick to the same routines where ever you are (like a horse show or a clinic).

So, even when your horse gets stressed out in a new place, he’ll calm down more quickly as you go through the routines.

And wouldn’t that make life more pleasant for both of you?

2.Be Aware.

Be in the present moment with your horse. Horses are aware of everything going on around them all the time.

While you might be distracted as you chat with a friend, check your text messages, or thinking about your “to do” list, your horse is taking in all the activity happening around him.

But, when you pay close attention to your horse and your surroundings, you’ll notice potential problems before they happen. So, you’ll see his subtle signs of tension before he spooks.

And you can prevent that unwanted behaviour from happening by taking action to help him relax.

The more relaxed he feels when he’s with you, the more he’ll want to be with you.

3.Be Relaxed. 

​Tension creates resistance. When you feel stressed or anxious you’ll have some level of tension in your body. And, it’s the same for your horse.

Tension in one of you creates tension in both of you. And you end up working against rather than with each other.

When you’re mentally and physically relaxed then you’re less reactive and better able to help your horse relax as well.

When you are consistent, aware and relaxed whenever you’re with your horse, you’ll develop a stronger bond, a deeper partnership. And you’ll both enjoy the ride.

Do you have frustrations with yourself or your horse that stop you from enjoying horse riding? Share in the comments.