Mind Over Matter: Championing Mental Health in Equestrian Sport

Equestrian sport has always been unique. It requires a seamless partnership between horse and rider, blending physical skill, mental agility, and emotional resilience. Yet, for too long, the focus has been on the technical aspects of riding while the mental health and mindset of riders have been pushed to the sidelines.

As someone who has dedicated over 14 years to mental skills coaching, I’m thrilled to bring Forging Ahead to the UK market—a chance to share my holistic approach to equestrian mental health and performance. In this article, I’ll explore the growing importance of mental health in equestrian sport, highlight the philosophy behind Forging Ahead, and share tips to help you prepare for your best season yet in 2025.

Why Mental Health Matters in Equestrian Sport

Mental health has become a much-needed topic of conversation across all sports, but equestrians face unique challenges. Our sport is not only physically demanding but also emotionally charged, with the welfare of another sentient being—our horse—at the heart of everything we do.

Competitive riders juggle high-pressure environments, the unpredictable nature of horses, and the personal toll of constant striving for perfection. Add in the fact that many riders are perfectionists by nature, and you have a recipe for stress, overwhelm, and burnout.

Good mental health isn’t just about coping—it’s about thriving. Riders who prioritize their mental well-being experience greater resilience, more consistent performances, and deeper connections with their horses.

The Forging Ahead Philosophy: A Holistic Approach to the Equestrian Athlete

At Forging Ahead, I believe in treating riders as whole people, not just athletes chasing ribbons. Mental skills coaching should enhance—not replace—the technical guidance you receive from your riding coach. Together, they create a powerful foundation for growth, resilience, and success.

Performance Skills Training (PST) vs. Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment (MAC)
Many traditional sports psychology models focus on Performance Skills Training (PST)—teaching tools like goal-setting, imagery, and arousal control. While valuable, PST often prioritizes immediate results over deeper personal growth.

At Forging Ahead, I use the Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment (MAC) approach. MAC goes beyond performance outcomes, emphasizing mindfulness, emotional regulation, and staying present in the moment. This approach not only helps riders excel under pressure but also nurtures their mental health in the long term.

The Role of Self-Understanding
I’m also a certified Enneagram coach, and this personality framework plays a significant role in my philosophy. Understanding your unique personality, reactions, and tendencies allows you to approach challenges with self-awareness and clarity. For example, are you someone who craves control, or do you thrive on collaboration? Knowing this helps you identify where to focus your energy and growth.

When riders develop self-awareness, they unlock a deeper understanding of their strengths and limitations, enabling them to manage stress, improve communication with their horses, and embrace personal growth.

Mental Health Meets Mental Skills

Mental health and mental skills go hand in hand, yet they’re often seen as separate disciplines. At Forging Ahead, I integrate these elements to create a holistic approach that addresses body, mind and soul.

Mental Health: Building a Foundation

Good mental health provides the stability riders need to cope with challenges, recover from setbacks, and maintain balance in their lives. Tools like mindfulness, journaling, and gratitude practices help riders manage anxiety, build resilience, and stay grounded.

Mental Skills: Enhancing Performance

Mental skills focus on purpose, preparation, and performance. Visualization, goal-setting, and pre-ride routines are powerful techniques that help riders perform at their peak.

By combining mental health strategies with mental skills techniques, riders can achieve consistent performances without sacrificing their well-being.

5 Mental Health Tips for Equestrians in 2025

Prioritize Self-Care

Make time for rest, relaxation, and activities outside of riding. Burnout doesn’t just affect your mind—it impacts your connection with your horse.

Learn to Let Go of Perfectionism

Mistakes are part of learning. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on progress and celebrate small wins along the way.

Embrace Mindfulness

Practice being present in the moment. Whether you’re grooming your horse or riding a challenging course, mindfulness helps you stay calm, focused, and connected.

Build a Support Network

Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Whether it’s your trainer, fellow riders, or a mental skills coach, having a strong support system is invaluable.

Know When to Ask for Help

Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. If you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, or overwhelm, reach out to a coach, therapist, or trusted mentor.

5 Mental Skills for Peak Performance

Develop a Pre-Ride Routine

Create a sequence of steps that calm your nerves and focus your mind before you get in the saddle.

Practice Visualization

Mentally rehearse your ride, imagining yourself and your horse performing with confidence and precision.

Set Realistic Goals

Break your goals into manageable steps. Focus on personal growth, not just competition results.

Use Positive Self-Talk

Replace negative thoughts with affirmations that build confidence and resilience.

Reflect and Learn

After every ride, take time to reflect on what went well and where you can improve. Growth happens in the moments of reflection.

The 2025 Roadmap: What’s Next for Forging Ahead?

As we launch in the UK, I’m excited to offer a range of programs tailored to riders of all levels:

One-on-One Coaching: Personalized support to help you overcome challenges and build mental resilience.

Forging Ahead Academy: A community of riders dedicated to growth, offering resources, group coaching, and exclusive content.

10-Week Guided Course: Starting in January, this course will help you align your body, mind, and soul for a stress-free and successful season.

Mental Skills Starter Kit: A quick-start guide answering the top three questions riders ask about mindset.

Let’s Forge Ahead Together

Mental health and mindset are no longer optional—they’re essential for equestrians who want to thrive in and out of the saddle. At Forging Ahead, my mission is to help riders unlock their full potential by combining self-awareness, mental skills, and emotional well-being.

Whether you’re preparing for your next competition or looking to build a stronger connection with your horse, I’d love to support you on your journey.

Schedule an appointment today and let’s start 2025 with clarity, confidence, and connection