As a dedicated riding instructor, you’ve invested time and effort to hone your skills and deepen your knowledge. Your passion lies in helping your students grow, progress, and succeed in their riding journey. You can see the path forward clearly, and the next step is right there, waiting for them to take. Yet, sometimes, something holds them back.
Every trainer knows the story of a promising student whose progress stalls. You recognize their potential and have equipped them with the skills to take the next step. But when they reach that threshold, they freeze, as if an invisible barrier blocks the way. The culprit? Fear.
Fear is a natural part of our human experience, hardwired into our neural architecture to keep us safe. It has helped us survive and navigate an uncertain world, encouraging caution as we explore new territory. However, not everyone experiences fear in the same way. Some riders can step far outside their comfort zone while staying grounded and composed. Others have a smaller window of tolerance, becoming overwhelmed by anxiety, which may manifest as argumentative behavior, tears, or freezing in the saddle.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked with riders to navigate their fears and supported instructors in developing the understanding and tools to guide their students through these challenges. Helping students grow emotionally as riders is much like training horses: while occasional breakthroughs happen, progress is often gradual, built through small, steady steps. To stay on this path, you need confidence in your skills and a supportive community to turn to when challenges arise.
We’ve heard your calls for accessible resources and support, and we’re here to help. Join us for our upcoming Emotions in the Arena webinar, where you’ll learn three key strategies to help your riding students manage their emotions, stay focused, and build resilience in the arena.
We know your time is precious, so we’re offering this free webinar on three different days and times to fit your schedule. Reserve your spot here (https://course.ridingfar.com/join-us) and take the first step toward empowering your students to overcome fear and thrive. We look forward to seeing you there!
~ Paul
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