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Equestrian New Years Resolution

Posted by Lynnsy Diekman - Saddle Up on Jan 4th 2023

The New Year brings so many wonderful opportunities. It is the perfect reset and blank canvas to go after your goals! We all know about New Year Resolutions and most involve personal journeys. While these are important, I think it is so motivating to make horse targeted resolutions! By setting goals for you and your horse, you will strengthen your bond and better yourself as a rider. Let’s take a look at some equestrian resolutions! 

1. Haul to a new place 

You and your horse may be used to hauling to different locations, but for some horses it can be very stressful. Exposure is key to having a solid horse. The more you show them, the more they are prepared for. A great starting point is hauling to an open ride at a local fairgrounds/arena and take things slow. Even if you don’t ride at first, just taking your horse out and standing with them can be a huge step! You can haul to a friend’s house or to an open trail, there are many options to choose from. 

2. Try a new discipline 

Regardless if you are a trail rider, hunter jumper, barrel racer, or roper, never be afraid to try something new! Have you ever wanted to try something out of the box? Go for it! Trying a new discipline is not only good for you, but it can do wonders for your horse. Horses enjoy doing something different and it can even help them excel at their main discipline. It doesn’t matter if you just try something once or if you get serious about a new style, just trying it can be such a nice change. From personal experience, I have barrel raced ever since I was a kid. I have loved it and never want to try anything else, but that changed a few months ago. I took a shot at breakaway roping and I love it! It was a great learning curve for myself and really made my horse and I a better team.

3. Attend a clinic 

Is there a clinician you have always wanted to audit or ride with? Now is the perfect time! You can start early and make a plan. See if they are coming to your location or one near you. If so, start checking out hotels, cost, timeframe, and all the details. Even if you don’t ride or take your horse, you will learn so much by just attending. 

4. Develop a fitness routine for your horse and yourself 

Riding a horse is one of the most physically demanding sports of all time. While you don’t have to be a bodybuilder, being in shape will really enhance your riding abilities. Try creating a fitness routine for your horse and yourself. It can include yoga, at home exercises, long trotting, or even just stretching. Our horses are athletes, as are we. Once we start treating ourselves that way, we will unlock a whole new skill level. 

5. Conquer one of your riding fears 

Let’s be honest, we also have one of the most dangerous hobbies out there. Each individual rider has a fear or something they battle with. It can be similar or different for each person, but it is totally normal! It can be anything from galloping in a field to entering a competition. I know it is really hard, but it is important to work through those fears. Whenever our horse is spooked by something we reassure them and comfort them. But when we are spooked, we tend to just hold ourselves back. For this New Year, work towards conquering your riding fear. Even if you take baby steps, just trying is extreme progress. Sometimes having an emotional support friend can really help! However, never put yourself in a dangerous situation. You know your horse best and your limits. Just do the best you can and be safe!

Do you have an equestrian resolution of your own? We would love to hear it! We hope 2023 brings big opportunities and lots of riding time. Remember to always enjoy your horse and focus on the positive things.