Riding Fear

Close-up of the face of a nervous, fearful rider, biting her fingernail.

The Thinking Rider

Are you embarrassed by your fear in the saddle? Don’t be! Here’s how to turn that fear into a plan to build riding confidence that endures and grows.

To establish a true connection through your seat, have a helper control your horse as you concentrate only on relaxing your body and moving with the rhythm of your horse’s motion.

Western Horse Training Tips

This exercise will connect you to your horse’s movement, secure your seat, and build your confidence.

Credit: Photo courtesy of Heidi A. McLaughlin The author on her Paint gelding, Chief.

Fear ruled her riding life for eight years, then she beat it. Now she’s sharing her method.

Girl riding a buckskin horse in a valley with mountains in the background.

Build confidence

Get a handle on your riding related fears, with this 10-step self-help program from a sports psychologist.