I've been riding for 10 years now, and I still have fear issues. I get nervous about jumping, skiddish horses, unfamiliar situations, and going faster than a canter. I've taken some nasty falls over the years, and I'm sure that has added to my fear, but I feel like I've always had to fight my mind. For example, my trainer knows I'm capable of jumping 2', but I sure as heck don't feel inclined to - I will, but I'll be nervous the whole time. I do not have a horse of my own at the moment, and I ride everyone elses horses. I recently made the IHSA riding team at my school - my coach knows of my fear issues, and since I'm only in 2A, I figure showing won't be that big of a deal. I guess she figures if I'm working for a team instead of just myself, I'll get over my fears. But who knows if that's gonna happen. I do not trust any horse I get on, and I know that being aware is important whenever one rides, but I can't seem to get the extreme distrust out of my head.
I'm wondering if anyone has any tips besides practicing - I already do that multiple times a week. 8)
I'm wondering if anyone has any tips besides practicing - I already do that multiple times a week. 8)