As another year approaches, riders everywhere are pulling out their planners and dreaming big. Whether that’s qualifying for the finals, winning a blue ribbon, adding a shiny, new buckle to your belt, or just nailing your turnaround. But here’s the thing about horse goals: they need to be as practical as they are ambitious. Let’s break down how to set achievable goals that will actually stick past January.

1. Start Where You Are, Not Where You Want to Be

Take an honest look at where you and your horse are right now. Did you consistently make it to the barn three times a week last year? Then jumping to six days might be setting yourself up for frustration. Instead, aim for four solid days and build from there. Or, did you just start learning how to ask for that flying lead change? Keep working on that maneuver and master it, before tackling your next goal.

2. Break It Down

Want to qualify for a major event? Work backward and consider a few things:

• How many shows will it take?
• What skills need improvement, either yours or your horse’s.
• What’s your current budget and schedule? Do you have a full-time job that might make it hard to hit the big shows? Be strategic with your planning, and get the most bang for your buck.

Each big goal can be broken into monthly benchmarks that you can actually track. Setting trackable goals can keep you motivated as you see tangible progress being made.

3. Get Specific with Your Time

“Ride more” isn’t a goal – it’s a wish. Try these instead:

• “Ride Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday mornings”
• “Schedule two lessons per month”
• “Attend one clinic per quarter”
• “Practice pattern work for 20 minutes after each warm-up”

4. Make Your Goals Appropriate For Your Horse

Your horse’s age, training level, and physical capabilities matter. A young horse might need more groundwork goals, while a seasoned campaigner might benefit from cross-training. Don’t ask him for more than he’s ready for, and let him progress at his pace. Pushing your horse faster than he’s ready for can cause burnout, injury, or sour him. Listen to your trainer, vet, and most importantly, your horse.

Is your horse ready for the work? Here’s how to leg up the out-of-shape horse.

5. Track Your Progress

Keep it simple:

• Use your phone to video rides, or have your trainer, friend, or barn-buddy video you to review your progress.
• Keep a short training journal – what was a highlight from each training session? Where did you and your horse get stuck?
• Track show scores.
• Note any setbacks or breakthroughs.

Remember: Progress isn’t always linear. Some of the best training breakthroughs come after working through challenges.

The Bottom Line

Set goals that excite you but don’t overwhelm you. The best goals are the ones you can actually achieve while enjoying the journey with your horse. After all, that’s what keeps us coming back to the barn day after day.

Want to up your game in 2025? Learn from top trainers in the industry over at Horse&Rider OnDemand.