Rebuilding confidence to canter and jump

It is common for the body to react by tensing up and leaning forward when we feel afraid, and it can be hard to control in the moment. Here are a few tips for handling it:

Do what feels safe. Skip or simplify any task that feels too hard until you feel comfortable. Pushing yourself into something that feels too frightening can actually knock your confidence, even if you manage it.

Build on what you can do. Do things that feel easy and fun for you. When you succeed, praise yourself and replay the effort in your head, which strengthens your confidence.

Work step by step. Identify which situations trigger your fear and expose yourself to them gradually. Talk to your instructor or riding teacher about working in small steps.

Prepare yourself. Do things that help you relax before you face the situations that feel difficult.

Remember that many people who ride feel afraid at times, and that is completely normal. You can rebuild your confidence by taking small steps at your own pace. Good luck!