Why you shouldn’t always put on your brave face when riding

Who hasn’t heard a horsey friend say they just need to put on their brave pants? We’re so often told that bravery is what makes a great rider, yet what comes to mind when conjuring up images of bravery? Soldiers, firefighters, lion tamers, even – not a rider and their horse producing a flowing test or clear showjumping round in harmony.

Bravery’s defined as being ready to face and endure danger or pain, which certainly doesn’t align with most riders’ goal of having fun with their horse. Let’s consider how bravery fits into our ideal view of equestrianism and whether it’s necessary for having fun with your horse.

Risk versus reward

Riding is a risky sport and accidents happen. However, rather than being brave and potentially disregarding safety, it’s much better to focus on being intelligent, thoughtful and proactive to achieve your goals. Being able to accept the risks, take them on board and consciously minimise them where possible will help you enjoy your riding confidently and without fear – eliminating the need for bravery at all.

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The phrase ‘putting on your brave pants’ has a nice ring to it, particularly pre-cross-country when the nerves might get the better of you. However, if you’re truly prepared and well-practised, are they really needed?

Cause for concern

The reason for my worries about the impact of telling riders to just be brave is that it encourages them to take unnecessary risks to prove themselves. Pushing yourself further than you feel ready or riding unsuitable horses isn’t safe or fun – so, what’s the point? Instead, a culture of confident and happy riders who’ve considered the risks and feel comfortable taking a step up with support and help from those around them would make for a far nicer environment.

Confidence is easy to lose, so it’s important to protect it where you can. Avoiding unnecessary risks, working up to your goal incrementally and enjoying help and support from other riders is crucial to building and maintaining your confidence.

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Think about what you do with your horse and whether it makes you feel positive and excited. If the thought of a round of showjumping fills you with dread, why not make the change to dressage, or go hacking with friends more often to take off the pressure?

Grab your copy of Winter Horse&Rider, on sale 4 November 2021 to learn more useful tips from confidence coach Daisy Smith