Scared In The Saddle? Here’s How You Can Kick Your Fear Of Horses

Overcome Your Fear And Embrace The Bond With Your Horse!

There are two types of people in the equine world; number one, who are comfortable with and around horses and the others who carry their equine anxieties due to their own reasons. These fears are often subjective and personal.

Are you among those who feel a flutter of anxiety at the mere thought of getting close to a horse? Don’t worry; you’re not alone! Many people experience fear when it comes to horses. Still, with a little bit of guidance and a whole lot of determination, you can conquer those fears and find joy in the saddle. 

Horses, magnificent creatures known for their strength, grace, and companionship, capture the hearts of many. They have these big personalities that make a person want to pet them and be intimidated at the same time. Yet, hidden beneath their majestic exterior lies a fascinating phenomenon - the fears of horses. 

While it may seem surprising, just like some humans, even horses have their own set of worries and apprehensions toward them. With the right tricks and approach, you no longer have to feel fidgety around horses; you want to ride or be around the horse, so you shall. 

One great idea to overcome the fear is enrolling in lessons from a pro. Yes, that’s right. Riding lessons offer a structured and supportive framework to help you gradually overcome your fear of horses, discover the joys of riding, and build a lasting connection with these beautiful gorgeous animals. 

In this article, we’ll provide some other friendly tips and tricks to help you kick your fears of horses to the curb and confidently embrace the equestrian world.

No more discomfort or fears; we are here to help you get in the saddle and gallop away!

How To Face Your Fears

Let’s start by acknowledging the fear you may harbor towards horses and try to understand the reasons behind your fears first. It will help you reason with yourself and work on the issue. The reasons for your fear may include; Equinophobia, the fear of horses, some trauma rooted in the past, the size of the horse, or maybe the uncertainty of what may happen if the horse acted unpredictably. 

It’s important to remember that fears are personal and can vary from individual to individual. 

Overcoming these fears often requires gradual exposure, education, building trust, and seeking professional guidance when needed. With time, patience, and positive experiences, many individuals can learn to overcome their fears of horses and develop a deep appreciation for these magnificent creatures.

Here are some tips to help you overcome your fear and transform your relationship with horses.

1. Give Yourself A Pep Talk

Nothing can ready you to face or overcome your fears of saddling up and riding that horse but yourself. You need to tell yourself that you can and will achieve what you are after. Once you win the battle in your head, you are already a winner! 

Harness the power of your imagination. Visualize yourself confidently riding a horse, feeling at ease and in control. 

Practice positive affirmations to boost your self-belief and replace negative thoughts with empowering ones. Embrace the mindset of success, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

2. Start Small

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is conquering your fear of horses. Begin by taking small steps to ease yourself into the horse world. Visit a local stable or equestrian center and spend some time observing horses from a safe distance. Gradually increase your proximity to them until you feel comfortable approaching and touching them. Remember, it’s all about taking it at your own pace.

3. Educate Yourself About Horses

The key is education! Find an opportunity to study horses, their way of behaving, and how they connect with you. Watch tutorials or read books on horse care and handling. Understanding their non-verbal communication and knowing what to expect can support your confidence and dissipate any misguided judgments that may be fueling your fears.

4. Establish a Bond

Building a connection of trust with a horse can help diminish your fears. The more you observe, the easier it will seem. Spend time with the horse, grooming, feeding treats, and practicing basic groundwork. By creating a positive connection through gentle interactions, you’ll start to see that horses are more than just big, intimidating creatures—they are gentle, intuitive, and often eager to please.

5. Work With Someone Trustworthy

Teaming up with an experienced horse person can make a world of difference in your journey. Seek out a patient and knowledgeable instructor or trainer who can guide you through the process. They can teach you the basics, provide reassurance, and match you with a gentle, well-trained horse that suits your level of comfort.

6. Reward and Celebrate

Even if it is a baby step toward your goal, celebrate your progress and reward yourself for facing your fears. Treat yourself to small victories along the way—a pat on the back for every successful grooming session, a congratulatory treat after a positive riding lesson. Remember, this journey is about personal growth, and even the smallest steps count!

7. Learn and Learn Some More

Enroll in riding lessons with a qualified instructor specializing in working with nervous riders. They will help you develop proper riding techniques, build your confidence in the saddle, and teach you how to communicate effectively with the horse. 

Conclusion

Overcoming your fear of horses may seem daunting, but with the right approach and a supportive community, you can conquer it! Take it one step at a time, arm yourself with knowledge, and surround yourself with patient and understanding horse lovers. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself saddled up, fearlessly riding into the sunset, and embracing the incredible bond between human and horse. So, go ahead, kick your fears to the curb, and let the joy of horses fill your heart!