21/05/2024
Coaching riders is for the most part, a privilege. Sometimes though, it can feel like a ton weight to carry. Coaches don’t just help you to learn and develop in the saddle. Coaches have to understand your history, and that of your horse. Coaches have to quickly identify the right language to use to best communicate with you. Coaches have to work out from the start if you are a rider who needs to be coaxed, or pushed, or helped to take tiny steps with your hand held. Coaches have to advocate for the horse, and be aware of his responses, his management, his tack, his emotional and psychological climate, and his overall needs at all times. Coaches often have to take a horse and a rider who do not understand one another, and find a way to break down those barriers. Coaches have to manage expectations, and they have to be able to change the plan at a moments notice. Coaches have to have twenty different ways to solve each individual issue or challenge, and they have to help you and your horse to develop and to grow in both skill and confidence.
Coaches have to stand out in all weathers to earn their wage. They have to remain positive and encouraging, no matter what else is going on in their lives at the time. Coaches have to be reasonable, flexible and accountable, and they work harder for less money than most.
If you have a good coach, make sure you tell them sometimes that you appreciate their time, their support, and their commitment. It’s only a few words for you, but you might just make your coach’s week-and a reminder of why we do this job is always appreciated.
