Getting Back on the Horse After a Long Absence

It’s tough to admit, but most of us have taken a long pause from riding – maybe a busy work schedule, an injury, or just life getting in the way. The good news? You don’t have to start from scratch. With a few smart moves you can bounce back faster than you think.

Why the Break Happens

Everyone’s story is different. Some riders stop because they moved to a city without stables, others because a bad fall shook their confidence. A lot of folks simply forget how balanced they felt on a horse when they’re glued to a desk all day. Knowing why you stopped helps you plan the right comeback. If it was a time crunch, schedule short, regular sessions. If it was fear, focus on rebuilding trust with low‑stress exercises.

Getting Back on the Horse Safely

First thing: check your gear. A snug helmet, well‑fitted boots, and a comfortable saddle can make the difference between a smooth ride and a painful wobble. If your helmet is older than three years, replace it – safety doesn’t wait.

Next, work on basic fitness. Riding asks for core strength, balance, and leg endurance. Simple drills like planks, wall‑sits, and hip bridges can get those muscles back in shape without a gym membership. Do them three times a week for a month and you’ll notice a steadier seat.

When you finally mount, start with a calm, familiar horse if you can. If that’s not possible, ask the stable for a mellow pony used for beginner lessons. A gentle animal reduces the chance of getting spooked and lets you focus on posture instead of the horse’s reactions.

Consider a lunge lesson as your first activity. In a lunge, the horse moves in a circle while you work on balance and rein control without worrying about steering. It’s like a warm‑up that lets your body remember the feel of a moving horse while the trainer keeps everything safe.

Don’t rush into jumping or dressage patterns right away. Stick to flatwork – long/rein, circles, and transitions between trot and canter. Once you’re comfortable with those, gradually add more complex moves.

Finally, keep your mind in check. Riding isn’t just physical; it’s mental. If you feel nervous, take a few deep breaths, visualize a smooth ride, and remind yourself that the horse is your partner, not an enemy. Talking it out with an instructor can also dissolve lingering doubts.

Bottom line: a long absence doesn’t mean you’ve lost the skill. With updated gear, a bit of conditioning, low‑pressure lessons, and a calm mindset, you’ll be back to enjoying the wind in your hair and the rhythm of hooves in no time.