When is it time to change coach?

Hello!

Sometimes you reach a threshold in your development, and your coach may say things you do not understand or want to hear, but that you need to take on board to move forward. Sometimes coaches are a little too "nice" and say more of what you want to hear so that you stay. I think that is a different problem from yours, though.

🦄 The fact that you feel the new coach gives you input that takes you and your horse forward in a way that feels right, and trust your gut here 😍, is important and worth weighing up when you think about whether to change coach. From what you describe, it does sound as though you and the new coach work well together.

🦄 The fact that you feel your current coach does not really listen to you or understand you does not sound nice. Could you tell her you want to try riding with the others a few times, and then meet again and review how you and the horse have progressed? I understand it is tricky given how long you have known each other, but if she is professional she should understand what you need to do to feel good and to find your training enjoyable and rewarding. This is also a smaller step than ending all your training at once.

🦄 On top of that, someone being condescending or negative towards you may be reason enough to change coach. Training should be enjoyable, however good friends you are. If you are worrying about a bad atmosphere or unkind comments, I think it is all too easy to sit there tensing up and not ride your best. There too, the new coach seems to give you better conditions.

Good luck!