Why Some Riders Get Stuck: Unpacking Progress in Your Horse Riding Journey

How to Move Forward When You Feel Stuck in the Saddle

At some point, every horse rider, from the eager beginner to the seasoned competitor, hits a plateau. Progress stalls, frustration creeps in, and doubts start to nibble at your confidence. If you’re finding yourself stuck in your horse riding journey, you’re definitely not alone. But the good news is, there are ways to get moving forward again—sometimes, it’s just a matter of shifting your mindset, changing up your approach, or taking a good, honest look in the rear-view mirror.

Understanding Why Riders Get Stuck

The reasons behind a lack of progress in horse riding can be as varied as the horses we ride. But commonly, it boils down to four areas: perspective, coaching, self-reflection and new experiences. Let’s delve into each and see how they might be holding you back—or could be the key to unlocking your next breakthrough.

1. Is It Your Perspective?

Your attitude and mindset play a massive role in your riding journey. Sometimes, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s not working, forgetting just how far you’ve already come. Progress in riding isn’t always linear—there are ups, downs, and plenty of sideways shuffling (just ask your horse!).

• Are you comparing yourself to others? Social media and competition can make it seem like everyone else is galloping ahead. Remember, every rider’s path is different.

• Are your goals realistic for your current situation? Wanting to clear 1.2m jumps is fantastic, but if you or your horse aren’t ready, it’s easy to get discouraged.

To shift your perspective, try celebrating the small wins—did your horse stand quietly at the mounting block today? Did you manage a softer transition? Progress!

2. Should You Change Coaches?

Sometimes, a plateau is a sign you need fresh eyes. Every coach has their own style, strengths, and areas of expertise. If you feel like you’re not being challenged, supported, or understood, it might be time to try someone new. This doesn’t mean your current coach is bad—just that your needs have changed.

• Are you getting constructive feedback, or just the same advice repeated?

• Do you leave lessons feeling inspired, or deflated?

• Is your coach helping you set and achieve goals that matter to you?

• Are you and your horse being challenged in a healthy way?

It can feel daunting to make a switch, but sometimes a change is exactly what you—and your horse—need to reignite the spark.

Check out the wonderful options for Canberra region coaches here.

3. Reflecting on Your Progress: Looking Back to Move Forward

When you’re in the thick of it, it can be hard to see how much you’ve actually improved. That’s why looking back over the past six months (or even a year) can be so powerful.

• What were you struggling with six months ago?

• What was your horse like then, compared to now?

• What have you learnt, both in and out of the saddle?

Keeping a riding journal, filming your rides, or simply chatting with a friend can help you spot the progress you may have missed.

My biggest thing here is taking pictures and videos! Compare them from 6 months ago to today and you will be humbly reminded that you and your horse are, in fact, progressing. #winning I think because we see our horses daily or more frequently you won't necessarily see the changes as you would with a 6 months difference. So bear that in mind when you are reflecting.

4. Check Out Something New to Ignite Passion

Sometimes going to audit (sit and spectate) a totally different equine discipline can ignite a passionate spark or give you a new educational perspective. It can also be a cheaper way to watch, observe, take notes and meet new horse people (rather than the added pressure of riding/commuting your horse).

• Have I ever seen something in the Western or English world?

• Are there any local events or clinics I can attend in-person to open my mind? (Check local Facebook groups)

• Is there anything I haven't tried but would like too (like archery on horseback, liberty, obstacles etc.)?

Seeing something new, gives you space to learn and be open to new things. You never know, it might ignite a new passion and energy in your step to get your mojo back.

Psychological Questions to Get Unstuck

If you’re serious about moving forward, it’s worth doing some honest self-reflection. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

• What’s really holding me back—fear, lack of knowledge, not enough time, or something else?

• Am I open to feedback and willing to try new approaches?

• Do I have a clear vision or goal for what I want to achieve, and why?

• How do I react to setbacks—do I see them as failures, or opportunities to learn?

• What would I say to a friend in my shoes?

• Am I expecting too much, too soon (both of me and my horse)?

Be honest with your answers, and don’t be afraid to seek support—whether from your coach, a fellow rider, or even a psychologist experienced in equestrian sports (Ben Netterfield is an amazing coach in this space).

Final Thoughts: Your Journey, Your Pace

Getting stuck is part of the process—sometimes it’s the nudge we need to grow. Whether it’s adjusting your perspective, finding a new mentor, or simply taking time to appreciate how far you and your horse have come, remember: every step counts, and every rider’s journey is unique. So next time you feel stuck, take a breath, ask yourself the tough questions, and keep moving forward—one hoofbeat at a time.