10 ways to get the most from your lessons

If you’re reading Horse&Rider, the chances are you’re interested in improving both your own and your horse’s skills. This means you’re also likely to be having lessons from a coach, or are planning to do so. But how can you get the most out of your sessions so you see real progress and use your time and resources effectively? I have some tips that will help you do just that.

Top tip

Finding the right coach is not only about improving your skills, as it’s also about ensuring their training approach and values align with yours, particularly in terms of horse welfare.

First steps

Finding the right coach is more than just ticking a box. It’s about finding someone who can make a real, tangible and positive difference to you and your horse so you make progress towards your equestrian goals – while having some fun along the way. There are some specific steps you can take to do this…

1. Spend some time observing potential coaches by attending their lessons or clinics. Watch how they interact with riders and horses. Are they clear and encouraging? Do they give constructive feedback? Observing these sessions gives you a first-hand look at their coaching style and approach.
2. Talk about your riding goals with potential coaches to ensure their coaching methods, knowledge and experience align with what you’re looking to achieve.
3. Ensure it’s someone who makes you feel comfortable and motivated, who respects your pace of learning and communicates clearly so you feel understood and supported in every session.

Top tip

Being fully engaged in your lessons accelerates your learning. By actively participating and applying what you’re working on, you’ll improve both your riding and the connection with your horse.

Set priorities

Identify what’s most important to you, whether that’s a coach who uses gentle training methods, one who prioritises the physical and mental wellbeing of your horse or someone who understands the specific challenges faced by competitive riders – or all of these. If you find a coach’s approach, values or methods don’t sit well with you or don’t bring out the best in your horse, it’s perfectly okay to look for someone else. Finding a person who fits well with both you and your horse is essential for creating a positive and productive learning environment.

Discover more of Alison’s tips on getting the most from your lessons in November Horse&Rider – out now!