It seems like I had confidence cutting out of the herd. Then, I seemed to have lost my mojo. Now, I have a little anxiety when I enter the herd. I need to regain my confidence, focus, plan and skills.

I think that at some point I’m always anxious when it comes to starting something new with my horse, I just wish I could have that little bit more trust in my horse so I can just get on the horse and all the bad things will go away. Though I do wish that I could spend more time with him because we only get to connect on weekends.

Confidence within struck a chord with me.Began learning to ride at age 63. I am now 70. Took lessons and then leased a horse. Rode him for 5 years but never was confident enough to cantor. He was too hot of a horse for me and on my first trail ride (long story) I fell off of him and broke my leg. That finally made me realize that I needed to change barns, trainers and find a horse that was quieter and more forgiving. I have now found that horse, that trainer and that barn. My trainer started me from… Read more »

I think my lack of confidence is holding me back from enjoying my 3 year old more he’s been under saddle for 6 months and i can’t get myself to leave the arena with him. All i want to be able to do is go down the trails.

I think my confidence issue comes when riding with a larger group on trails. This use to be my favorite place to be. No accident, so I really don’t know what brought it on. So I must be worried about what other people think and getting hurt.

I have had horses for 40 years,
but being older I took time out to replace my knee an hip..now I have severe mounting fears from a horse years ago…the thought of putting my right leg up an over my draft makes my stomach churn even from home…my horse stands fine it’s all in my head an lack of confidence.i hope you can help me find an get through those few seconds of fear.thanks

Am 66 and lease horses to ride and build my skills. Currently lease a 10 yo paint mare who I just love. Best horse relationship I’ve ever had — and she can be ‘fun’ goofy too. Normally ride her very well and feel great but I’ve also not been very demanding. Recently entered an ‘off trail challenge’ at the local arena and it was shocking to me how uncooperative she was. So I love a challenge and sincerely want to work on her and me to be able to do this well. I know she can do it in an… Read more »

The confidence within resonated, since I have over years and several horses, realized that I ride better and more relaxed when I am happy and in good spirits. I also, though, need that confidence in my horse. I have a younger horse that I have done more training with than any other horse in my life. That training reflects my, and his, confidence in each other. As an older rider (almost 70) I finally found more time and enthusiasm for training!

I am unable to view the first video Just to let you know.

I find there are certain people who are critical of my horses or my riding and training abilities and after listening to Barbara, I realize I have to tune them out. As long as I feel in my heart I am putting my best foot forward, I think I will feel a lot better about myself. I am really looking forward to this course and building a better relationship with my horses. Also, even though I don’t have any at the moment, I need some positive mentors!