Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever….. ·

Lost your way in a dressage test or showjumping round?

Become very nervous before a competition?

Become angry after making a mistake?

Made the same mistake repeatedly?

Lacked confidence in your ability?

Focused on all the negative aspects of your riding?

Found it difficult to get motivated?

Lost concentration?

Failed to prepare for a competition sufficiently?

Found it difficult to be disciplined in your weekly training?

Performed well in training, but badly at the competition?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you will benefit by improving your mental preparation – both in your riding and in your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Equestrian Mental Skills Coaching?

Equestrian mental skills coaching is a specialized form of coaching designed to enhance the mental and emotional aspects of competitive horse riding. It focuses on developing strategies and techniques to improve confidence, focus, resilience, and overall performance in equestrian sports.

How can equestrian mental skills coaching help me as a rider?

Equestrian mental skills coaching can benefit riders in numerous ways. It helps you overcome fears and anxieties, develop a positive mindset, enhance concentration and focus, manage competition pressure, improve goal-setting and motivation, and optimize overall performance, leading to greater success and enjoyment in your equestrian pursuits.

What qualifications and experience do your coaches have?

Linda is a Mental Skills Coach with a diploma in Practitioner Coaching (DIPC). Having worked extensively with leaders and teams in corporate, she now offers mental skills coaching to riders of all abilities, to help them maximise their equine partnership. As an enneagram practitioner who also works with Process Oriented Psychology, Linda is able to offer each client a fully individual approach, while still covering ground that is common to all riders. Additionally, she holds relevant certifications in coaching and sports psychology to ensure the highest quality of service. Linda is also a competitive rider, who competes in eventing, show jumping and dressage.

Can Mental Skills coaching help me as a beginner rider?

Absolutely! Equestrian mental skills coaching is beneficial for riders of all levels, including beginners. It provides a solid foundation for developing mental resilience, confidence, and focus from the early stages of your riding journey.

How are the coaching sessions conducted?

Individual coaching sessions can be conducted either in-person or online, depending on your preference and location. In-person sessions provide an opportunity for more hands-on guidance, while online sessions offer convenience and flexibility. We use a variety of coaching techniques, including discussions, exercises, visualisation, and goal-setting, to address your specific mental skills needs and help you achieve your riding goals. Please see below for more information on online group coaching through the Academy

How long does the coaching process typically take?

The duration of the coaching process varies depending on your individual goals, challenges, and progress. Remember, this is a SKILL you are learning - so it needs embedding, plenty of practice and finally it will become semi-automatic. Some riders may benefit from a few sessions to overcome specific obstacles, while others may prefer ongoing coaching for long-term development. I offer package rates for 4 or 8 initial sessions. Long term clients are able to book one or two top up sessions before a competition, or as needed.

What are the benefits and advantages of participating in online courses and joining the online membership academy?

Participating in online courses and joining the online membership academy offers several benefits and advantages.

Firstly, it provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to access valuable resources and training materials at your own pace and from anywhere with an internet connection.

Secondly, online courses and the membership academy offer a wealth of educational content, including instructional videos, worksheets, and interactive modules, to enhance your learning experience.

Additionally, being part of an online community of like-minded equestrians provides a supportive environment for networking, sharing experiences, and gaining insights from fellow riders and expert coaches.

Whether you're seeking ongoing education or prefer the convenience of virtual learning, our online courses and membership academy offer a comprehensive platform to support your equestrian mental skills development.

Who Is it For?

Riders of all ages and disciplines

For competitive riders seeking to excel in their equestrian pursuits, mental skills coaching is tailored to enhance your performance and mindset. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting, you will be guided through techniques to boost confidence, manage competition pressure, and improve focus. Through mental skills coaching you'll build mental resilience and overcome obstacles, enabling you to achieve peak performances and reach your goals in any equestrian discipline.

Coaches and Trainers

As coaches dedicated to nurturing equestrian talent, you understand the crucial role mental skills play in a rider's success. The comprehensive Forging Ahead mental skills coaching program equips riding coaches with valuable tools and strategies to effectively support their riders' mental and emotional well-being. By partnering with us, you'll gain insights into sports psychology and how to implement tailored coaching methods that enhance your riders' performance, fostering a positive and growth-oriented environment within your training programs.

Parents

We recognise that parents play a vital role in a young equestrian's development. Our mental skills coaching for young riders focuses on building a strong foundation for emotional well-being and success in the saddle. As parents, you are very much part of that process. At Forging Ahead, you will find parent specific online courses and webinars. Through your own coaching journey, you will be empowered to help your child grow not only as a skilled rider but also as a confident and resilient individual.

Budget Conscious and interested in Online Learning

If you're seeking quality mental skills coaching on a budget and prefer the convenience of online learning, Forging Ahead Academy and online courses are the perfect fit. Our online platform offers an affordable alternative to in-person coaching, allowing you to access a wealth of resources, instructional videos, and exercises from the comfort of your home. With a focus on practical and actionable techniques, our online courses cater to equestrians of all levels, empowering you to develop mental strength and improve performance without breaking the bank. Join our community of budget-conscious riders today and take the reins of your equestrian journey!

Mental Skills coaching for Equestrians

THINK BETTER, RIDE BETTER

+27 83 743. 7203

linda@forgingahead.co.za

Noordhoek, Western Cape, SA