Winter Riding Motivation

Winter – the time of year when motivation seems to hibernate, just like a bear in its cozy cave. But fear not, riders of the frozen fields, wind-blown arenas and soggy bridlepaths for our team is here with their top 10 tips to help you get through riding during the darker months.

1. Riding Buddies & Yard Companions: You know what they say, "Misery loves company." Organize rides with a fellow winter warrior, and make a plan. Or if you prefer a more solitary path, create your own bootcamp – and don't forget to find a yard buddy for moral support and shared laughter.
2. Hat and Boots, All Day Long: If you're pulling double duty with multiple horses, keep that hat and those boots glued to your noggin and feet. Keeping you in the right mindset and saving you having to start your motivation engine again for your 2nd or 3rd ride.
3. Set Your Sights on Shows: Nothing spurs on motivation like a looming event. Plan shows, lessons, or clinics to super charge your sessions. The knowledge that you have something to strut your stuff in will keep you on track and focused on your riding goals.
4. Daylight Robbery: If your arena is not flood lit, it's time to get cunning. Do the that you can mucking out, filling haynets, and preparing feeds in the evening, so you can relish more daylight hours in the saddle.
5. Meal Prep Wizard: Prepare for your return from the yard with a prepped meal waiting at home. Whether it's a slow-cooker masterpiece or a minimal effort microwave meal, it's one less thing to think about when you roll in late and ravenous.
6. Plan Like a Pro: Get ahead of the game with a schooling plan for the week. Book a lesson or ask your instructor on the top five things you should be working on. Plus, the internet is bursting with exercises or ideas to test out with your trusty steed. There are also many apps that can help you with ideas like polework patterns.
7. The Thrill of Something New: Spice up your equestrian life by trying out a new discipline or teaching your horse a skill that's a little out of the ordinary – like gate opening and closing while mounted. The little things you can learn with your horse are endless and they can have real life uses.
8. Stay Toasty and Dry: There is no beating around the bush riding in the rain is rubbish, and soggy socks are the last thing you need. Ensure both you and your horse have the gear to stay warm and dry.
9. Snack Attack: A snack box at the yard – your secret weapon. Stock it with pot noodles, instant hot chocolate, and snacks. Because who doesn't love a snack or a warm drink after a soggy or chilly ride? If you are leaving it at the yard make sure it is pest proofed! You don’t want to find missing bits or extra “raisins” in your snacks.
10. Mood Check: It's alright to admit when you're having one of those days. If it feels like climbing Everest to get into the saddle, it's okay to take a day off. Spend some quality time with your four-legged friend, pamper them with cuddles and kisses, if they're into that kind of thing. Forcing a ride on such days won't do any good for either of you.

Winter riding can be a wild ride in itself, but armed with these tips, it can help to keep your momentum rolling. So, saddle up, get out there, and remember to take a moment on the coldest and wettest of days to appreciate there are no flies!