Camps, Clinics and Workshops

One of the aspects of my job that I enjoy most is attending various camps, clinics and workshops to talk, off horse, with riders about confidence and mindset.

In these settings I am collaborating with riding coaches so that, together, we can offer riders an experience which combines practical riding skills with a growing understanding of the importance of mindset in equestrian sport.

Yesterday was my first attendance at a camp for 2024. A confidence day camp at Turlood Equestrian. Fourteen riders were on the day specifically to be able to learn in a supportive environment in order to grow in confidence so that they can enjoy their riding more without excessive worry.

For this group our topic for the lunchtime talk was “The Three Fundamentals of Riding Confidence” in which we looked at the use of language and self talk, physical relaxation and an introduction to visualisation as a way to boost confidence.

One of the major benefits of including “off-horse” work on days such as this is that the riders can then immediately put new skills into practice and notice the benefits that they have on how they feel in the saddle.

I always stress to the riders that I work with that it is just as important to practice their mindset skills as it is their riding skills. When learning anything new concepts and practice can seem challenging initially but, with repetition and application, these new skills are quickly incorporated into the rider’s “on-horse” experience.

I have more day camps in the diary including another one this week at Lindores with Equiteam. This is an “Ultimate Confidence Day” where twelve riders will benefit from ridden sessions plus “off-horse” talks. Several riders have also booked some 1:1 time with me where we will be able to address individual issues which may be personal or private and not appropriate for discussion in a larger group setting.

It’s not only riders who have confidence challenges who can benefit from my input. Talks can be adapted according to the needs of the group. We can cover subjects such as defining success, dealing with competition pressure, controlling the controllables and many other aspects of equestrian sport psychology. My Centre 10 training in Applied Psychology for Equestrian Sport is perfect for riders who are looking for a strong and resilient mindset which will help them to fulfil their riding goals at all levels from grassroots to advanced.

In the coming months I will be taking part in the Lindores “Steps to Success” series plus attending the BD Scotland camp at Howe Equestrian in May. I’m very excited about both of these opportunities and look forward to meeting some new riders and helping them prepare for competition throughout 2024.

If you would like some input at a camp, clinic or workshop then please do get in touch and we can have a chat about your needs and what I can offer.