Your summer season was great. You achieved your goals and are ready to keep rolling into the New Year…
And then the temperatures drop. Daylight Savings rolls around and suddenly you call for your horse in the dark. Chilly extremities become a regular part of your riding routine, and the motivational high that fueled your treks to lessons, shows, and clinics through the warmer months begins to wane.
Some riders are able to combat this late-autumn fatigue by envisioning the bright, sunshine-y light at the end of the tunnel: the southern migration. Many flock south, while others are left to combat Old Man Winter.
Don’t let winter break your rhythm! We’ve compiled some great tips to help you balance high ambitions and dwindling motivation so you can cruise towards your goals for 2019.
1. Eyes on the Prize: Find Something to Work Toward
November & December kick off planning season for the coming year. Scour the USHJA, USEA, USDF, and USEF calendars to figure out where to aim your efforts. Then, work backwards! Check calendars like STRIDER to find some schooling shows, workshops, or clinics that will give you the edge you need to debut next season.
Stay SMART: Studies have shown that people who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them.
A S.M.A.R.T goal is one that is specific, measurable, achievable, results-focused, and time-bound. Set aside some time, maybe on a particularly dreary autumn day, to jot down some goals you have for you and your horse. Remember, no goal is too small!
2. Untacked Improvements: Focus on Mind & Body to Improve Your Ride.
Pick up a new book by one of your favorite Top Riders. Many of the #FeaturedClinicians on the Event Clinics calendar have books available through Horse and Rider Books. Or, spice up your commute by checking out an equestrian podcast. We’re big fans of the options on Horse Radio Network, and Major League Eventing. Staying informed is a great way to keep yourself motivated and keep up with what is happening throughout the disciplines.
Equestrian sports require body awareness, not to mention being as fit as you expect your equine partner to be. There are some great at-home and gym-based ways to get ahead for next season. We chatted with Laura Crump-Anderson, equestrian fitness specialist at Inform Fitness (VA) to bring you tips from the expert. “Health and fitness are things to be worked on and maintained year round. The winter months can be an ideal time to put an emphasis on your body, but adding a yoga class or a fitness routine. Assuming you are still riding regularly, take note of how the asymmetries in your body might mirror that of your horse.” Check out this video for a step-by-step guide to a great equestrian exercise!
3. Good Nutrition for a Better Ride:Â Fuel for Athletes
We constantly obsess about the grain, hay, and supplements our horses are eating. But what about us?
“Fuel yourself through the winter months like the athlete you expect your horse to be”. Laura reminds us; “this is the time where holiday snacking can become overwhelming, and it seems you are invited to a new festivity almost daily. It’s important not to let your cheat meal become the cheat day, which will lead to the cheat week. That’s a recipe for finding yourself 10 pounds behind the curve by the New Year”.
The Quick Fix: Word around the arena is that Equestribar is making a delicious, nutritious bar for equestrian athletes! Plus, Laura told us “They are made with premium ingredients, they taste good, and they won’t crumble in your pocket”.
4. Get Ready: Bonus Tips
- Check the weather, and try plan your barn-free days in accordance with what Mother Nature is sending your way.
- Variety is the spice of life, so keep your rides entertaining for you & your horse. The arena can get old after a while, so do some research and find fresh exercises.
- We absolutely love these handy downloadable cavaletti exercises from our friends at Eq-Am Magazine.
- Stock up on hand & toe warmers! They’re great to keep in your pockets while you’re at the barn, too.
- Phone a friend. Find a riding buddy and hold one another accountable, even on those uninspiring days.
Now, bundle up and get out there! Your spring season will thank you. #DreamBigRideOn
