Many people, like me, have been competitive riding for years. There are others, however, who are just getting started in the sport of competitive riding. There is the possibility of learning more about the horseback riding lifestyle from other riders and trainers. There is always more to learn, however, and below you will find some of the things I wish I had learned before even starting competitive riding.
1. The fanciest horse is not necessary.
You do not need the fanciest horse to succeed. I would advise saving your money and buy horses that have recently been trained or are ordinary. It will take more training and more lessons, but these horses will eventually trust you more and become tame. You will learn more riding skills through difficulties.
2. Do not compare yourself to other riders.
It is easy in any sport or any hobby to compare yourself to where other riders who are the same age as you are. Never do this as it will only put you down. I would advise pushing yourself to success, but do not evaluate whether or not you are successful based on other people’s standards. You will eventually become better than those who were ahead of you through endurance and training.
3. The most inexpensive part is buying the horse.
Believe it or not, buying the horse is the cheapest part of the competitive riding process, especially when purchasing an ordinary horse. Other bills add up, however. I have had to pay vet bills, boarding bills for competitions, training and coaching bills, entry fees for tournaments, and membership fees.
4. Practice cross-country as much as possible.
I wish I would have practiced cross-country riding more when I was first starting. Showjumping training will never prepare you accurately for all that is involved in cross country schooling. Cross country schools will help you in learning to ride on grass, in learning to jump at a gallop, and in learning to ride effectively in various types of weather and terrain.
5. Avoid horse forums.
Horse forums are a place where people are cynical and spread rumors. I learned very quickly that these horse forums would only bring you down and give you a negative attitude as well. Ask advice from professionals you trust or other competitors that you know.
6. Falling off does not make you better.
Let me be the first to say that falling off a horse does not make you a better rider. Falling off a horse can prove to be very dangerous. Many competitors have become seriously injured when dropping off their horses; some never able to ride again. Please be as careful as possible when riding a horse to avoid falling off.
Competitive riding is one of the most fun sports, in my opinion. It takes grit and dedication, but it is well worth the effort. Keep yourself mentally and physically safe, and you are sure to fall in love with the sport just as I have.