A strengths-based approach to improving performance in equestrian sport - After years of working with equestrian athletes, I’ve noticed something surprising. Most riders have a hard time answering the question: What are you good at? They can tell me exactly what they need to fix, or what went badly at the last show, but their strengths… that’s trickier.

In January 2003, Penny Woodworth, who lives on Vancouver Island, BC, was taking a jumping lesson. “Smallish jumps, nothing exciting. My long-time error is looking down, which I did that day. My horse stopped, and I tumbled off. Not a bad fall at all, except that I landed with one butt-cheek on the ground pole. I got up and carried on, but I was crooked and stayed that way. After a week or so, still riding crooked and feeling shooting pains down my right leg, I went for physiotherapy. I had dislocated my sacroiliac (SI) joint. Regular physio treatments and exercises finally got it to stay in place and I continued riding.

Fall fairs, circuit championships, and club awards banquets signal the end of another horse show season. So how did it go? Did your shows, rodeos, or competitive trail rides meet your expectations? For the majority of horse owners, the answer to this question will likely be no. Stuff happens. And so we look toward the next year. But with chilly fall and winter weather looming, we all need some goals to motivate us to get off the couch and out to the arena on those cold nights!

Have you ever felt stuck in your riding, unsure how to bridge the gap between what you want to achieve and what you’re actually achieving? You’re not alone. Equestrian sport is often one of slow progress, long learning curves, and many setbacks. Success and progress come easier when equestrians harness the power of mental tools to build strong skills, such as confidence, focus, and emotional regulation.