Strides for Success

Tag: planning

  • A 10-Minute Riding Plan to Keep You Riding When Life Gets Busy

    A 10-Minute Riding Plan to Keep You Riding When Life Gets Busy

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    Feeling stretched thin this month? You’re not alone…  There are always times and seasons of our lives that make us feel like we’re being pulled in a million different directions! Family, kids, work, weather, holidays… And before you know it, your riding time is sliding right down your priorities list! It feels frustrating because you want to ride… But you just can’t seem to find the space for a “proper” training session.

    But what if it’s just your mindset that needs a tweaking, so that you begin to see the power in shorter, more intentional work with your horse? 10 minutes instead of 45… 

    This episode is all about giving you a simple, powerful riding plan you can use whenever you find yourself with too much to do and not enough time! It will help you to keep momentum, stay consistent, and actually feel like you’re still achieving things with your riding and your training.

    Find a Smaller Space

    Okay, before we go any further with the plan, I do think that there are 2 things you can do to set you up for success. The first one is to commit to a smaller space to work in. If you have only 10 minutes, a full-sized arena is too big!  You’ll end up wandering around, becoming distracted, and not get half as much done as you wanted in your small, dedicated chunk of time.

    When you ride in a smaller, enclosed space it creates focus, reduces overwhelm, keeps both of you mentally engaged, and acts like a little ‘connection bubble’ for you and your horse. 

    A 20m x 20m space is perfect, like a lunging ring. Alternatively, if you do have a bigger space, try placing poles on the ground, marking out a temporary, smaller space. I do suggest having a physical boundary. It really does help this shorter, focused work.

    Riding = Groundwork, Lunging, Riding, etc.

    My second point to clear up quickly is the fact that I am using the word ride or riding. But this plan is not just limited to riding.  Take riding to mean any intentional interaction you can have with your horse. Lunging, long-lining, groundwork, etc.

    Switching between different training methods will give you a fresh perspective, more information about your horse and yourself, and better clarity on what needs attention when you do find yourself with the luxury of more time. 

    What’s the 10 Minute Riding Plan?

    It’s a short, focused session designed to connect your body, your mind, and your horse’s attention, without pressure. And it’s a plan you can take and plug your own specific intentions or goals into so that it works exactly for you and your horse wherever you are right now in your riding.

    This riding plan works because it removes overwhelm, eliminates decision fatigue, and stops you from wandering around an arena trying to “fit something in.”

    The basic outline for this reset or riding plan includes:-

          • 1–2 minutes of Mindful Walking – Breathing, connecting your seat, syncing with your horse
          • 1–2 minutes of Rhythm Setting – Finding, keeping, and maintaining a consistent tempo
          • 2–3 minutes of Simple Patterns – Circles, figures of eight, changes of rein, serpentines, nothing fancy
          • 2–3 minutes of One Clear Focus – Transitions, your seat, straightness, bend, connection, half halt…

    It’s deliberately uncomplicated, because complicated rides don’t work when life is chaotic! This is the exact time you need to find what’s doable and just enough to keep you moving in your riding and training.

    What This Riding Plan Is Not For

    I think that for you to make the most of this riding plan, you need to realise that this is for when you don’t have the luxury of time or a consistent schedule. This is important. There are things that I feel need to be worked on when you do have those things. Things like explaining something new to your horse, or trying difficult new movements! Or anything that requires you to warm up for quite a bit of time. Don’t try to squash a full 40-minute training session into 10 minutes!

    If you only have 10 minutes, go into it with that mindset. Don’t try to cram and rush things. So often it’s the tension we bring by trying to do too much in a short period of time that negates all of the goodness of the short, intentional training sessions! 

     

    Why a 10 Minute Riding Plan Works

    When you go into this with the full intention of it being exactly what it is, a short intentional ride, you’ll get positive results. You can use the time to reinforce or practice positive habits while maintaining or even strengthening your partnership with your horse.

    And instead of allowing all past progress to slide due to a busy period, you get to come out the other side still moving forward with momentum! 

    And keep in mind that your horse doesn’t know the ride is only 10 minutes long! He will rather feel your presence, your intention, and if you plan well, benefit from the whole experience!

    Making This Work for 4 to 6 Weeks

    How long you will have to ride in this way will depend on your specific situation and circumstances. But it really can help you come out the other side of a busy period still connected and working with your horse if you commit to being consistent, doing the planning work, and showing up!

    1. Choose a Time Window

    Okay, so let’s say you’re looking at this coming week. Instead of saying I’ll ride Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, I want you to get more specific. Not a specific time exactly, but rather a specific window of time in which you will ride.  So, for example, I will ride:-

          • Sometime between 7am and 9am on Wednesday.
          • Before evening feeding time on Thursday
          • During my lunch on Monday

    2. Choose a Weekly Focus

    Then, rather than just showing up on the day and wandering aimlessly around for 10 minutes, choose a theme for the week.  This way, even if you only get 2 riding sessions in, you are building consistency and momentum to keep you both ‘ticking over’ when life feels hectic! I think that the theme will depend on where you both are in your training, but a few potential ones you could explore are:-

          • Rhythm
          • Transitions
          • Weight aids
          • Bending and flexion
          • Straightness
          • The half halt

    3. Track & Review the Work!

    I’ve been preaching this for years, and it is still the missing piece for so many riders! They are just not tracking and reviewing their rides! You will begin creating and building momentum when you develop consistency.

          • Take the time to review each ride immediately after it happens
          • Look for and notice patterns
          • Allow what you learn to guide the next week’s theme

    Inside Connection, I have created training to help you use AI to make tracking and reviewing easier and more effective. The recordings are available there right now for you to dive into

    And, if you’re looking for looking for short, structured riding plans, Connection is packed with 12 minute audio horse riding lessons you can use every time you’re in the saddle. 

    Whatever you decide, don’t allow a busy period of life to derail you and your riding plans. I have a full workbook filled with 15-minute or less ideas you can use to get inspired. It’s packed with quick ideas for groundwork, lunging, and riding, and it’s 100% free over at https://stridesforsuccess.com/15

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Explore Connection

    Connection is full of short, structured 12-minute audio horse riding lessons, perfect for December or other busy periods! We’re also deep-diving into the half halt this quarter, with live trainings and replays available inside.
    https://stridesforsuccess.com/join

    Online Training & Coaching

    The Your Signature Ride Challenge

    Here’s the idea: you use only your seat and leg aids to “write” your name in the arena. Sounds simple, right? But what it really does is sharpen your awareness of timing and clarity.  You’ll learn when your aids actually make a difference.  And you’ll have fun doing it.  All while creating a pattern that’s uniquely yours!

    You can sign up by CLICKING HERE

    It’s free to join, and every rider who participates gets access to a guided audio lesson to help them through the challenge. Plus, you’ll have a chance to win 3 months inside Connection (a $66 value)

    Restart & Reschool

    And if you would like a little more 1-to-1 coaching, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. It is perfect if you’re starting your practice – or if you’re looking to turn your existing practice into something ‘real’ for you and your horse. I’ll guide you step by step on the way! You’ll not only get the full ‘OTTB; From Racetrack to Ready Program’, but also fortnightly private lessons with me to move you forward in your riding.

    We can work on anything you would like; from groundwork, to lunging, to riding, to jumping… With the virtual private lessons, we can do all of these things – and more.  If you would like to find out more, you can let me know a little more about you HERE. I will then reach back out, and we can chat!

    This is the support, training, and accountability you’ve been missing to finally follow through and start seeing progress. No fluff. No overwhelm. And as flexible as you need for your lifestyle. 

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • How Using A.I. in Your Horse Riding Is Like a Half Halt

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    Have you ever noticed how the principles we use to train our horses almost always apply to us as riders, too?
    I’m a big believer in that — the idea that if something’s important for your horse, it’s probably important for you as well.

    Lately, we’ve been diving deep into half halts.  These little moments can completely change the feel and flow of a ride. And how much time you spend ‘reestablishing’ rather than ‘maintaining’ the good work you’re doing!  So what if you could take the concept of a half halt and apply it to your own learning and mindset as a rider?

    Today, I want to show you how you can do just that, and how bringing A.I. into your horse riding can help you pause, reflect, and make more progress than ever before.

    Half Halt for Horse & Rider

    Imagine this… You’re riding your horse through a corner. Maybe you’re in the arena, maybe you’re out on the trail. Everything feels fine, and then suddenly there’s a little speed wobble. You feel your horse tip forward, lose rhythm, and start to feel a little off balance.  Now, what do you do in that moment?  You could just push on, right? Add leg, ride through it, and hope everything settles. Sometimes it does, but often it doesn’t.  What usually happens is that your horse gets heavier on the forehand, loses more balance, and you spend the next few minutes trying to get things back on track.

    But if you feel that wobble and respond with a well timed and put-together half-halt instead…  A quick, intentional pause to rebalance and redirect energy, chances are you will catch the ‘wobble’ before it becomes a problem!

    You stay connected. You and your horse realign.  The half halt saves what’s already good, without having to start all over again.  Now, what if you could do that for yourself?  For your mindset as a rider and trainer.

    Half Halt for Your Mind

    A half halt is like a “whoa, steady up” moment.  It’s a pause, but not a stop. It’s a second to reconnect, re-engage, and move forward with intention again.  As riders, we need to learn how to apply that same principle mentally. Because just like our horses, we have our own speed wobbles. Those moments where we lose focus, get frustrated, or push on without really thinking about why.  And that’s when things start to unravel.

    Instead of rushing through, the mental half halt is your moment to pause, to assess, not judge. To say, “Hold on, what’s really happening here?” That’s how you stay balanced as a rider, no matter what’s happening underneath you.

    Review Your Rides

    I’ve said it for years (since 2013, in fact): intentionally reviewing your rides is one of the single most important things you can do to improve your riding.  If you want to improve your skills and your partnership with your horse, you have to know what’s actually happening. Not just guess! You can’t change what you’re not aware of.

    But here’s the thing… Reviewing your rides takes time. Writing or typing notes after every session can feel like another task on a long list. And most riders, understandably, stop doing it.  That’s where A.I. in your horse riding becomes a total game-changer.

    How A.I. Can Help You “Half Halt”

    Now, before you switch off at the word “A.I.,” hear me out.  I’m not talking about robots replacing riders or trainers. I’m talking about using A.I. as a simple reflection tool. Something that can help you notice things more clearly and quickly, so you can redirect and rebalance your training just like a half halt does in the saddle.

    Think of it as your digital accountability partner.  Let’s say after your ride, you open an app and record a short voice note:

            • What worked today?
            • What didn’t feel quite right?
            • What do I want to focus on next time?

    I’ve found that by speaking freely with no filters or structure, I give more details and feelings. And this is where the gold happens. Because, even if you feel that it will take ages to make heads or tails of what you just said, A.I. can do this in seconds.

    Simply ask your A.I. tool (like ChatGPT, etc.):  “Can you summarize what I said and help me identify any patterns or key takeaways?”

    It doesn’t tell you what to do. It simply packages what you’ve already said in a clear, structured way, like a tidy, ready-to-use reflection note. It’s your personal lesson review assistant! 

    Over time, it begins to spot the subtle things you might miss. It highlights trends in your training, your focus, even your mindset.  And, from my own personal experience, that’s where the magic happens!

    Why A.I. Works So Well for Equestrians

    A.I. is designed to spot patterns. That’s literally how it functions, by noticing connections and recurring details in what you feed it.  When you apply this to your horse riding, it becomes an incredible awareness tool.  It might show you that:

          • You mention “rushed transitions” in three separate sessions
          • You keep describing a left bend issue in canter
          • You only talk about rhythm when you’re on one specific horse

    Those are the kinds of patterns we often miss because we’re too close to the work.  And once you see them, you can half halt your own habits,  redirect your focus, rebalance your energy, and progress with purpose.

    A.I. Won’t Replace Feel – It Refines

    It’s worth saying again, this isn’t about letting A.I. tell you what to do! It’s about letting it help you see what’s already there.  Because when you can clearly see your own patterns, you can make better choices. You can set goals that are realistic and motivating. You can train with focus instead of frustration.

    That’s the real half halt in your riding development and training; learning to pause and rebalance or refocus if necessary, before pushing forward.

    Using A.I. in Your Horse Riding

    Let me give you a final example… Let’s say your current goal is to ride a track of fences in a balanced canter.  However, you’ve noticed that every time you approach a fence from the left rein, the chances of rubbing or knocking a pole are higher!  When you start reviewing your rides consistently, you start to see what’s happening. It’s not hte jump – its the turn on the left rein BEFORE the jump that’s the issue!

    The same way a well-timed half halt through the corner sets you up for a balanced jump, a mental half halt — through regular reviews — helps you steady your thoughts, refocus, and decide what really needs your attention next.

    And when you bring A.I. into your horse riding, you multiply that effect. You make it easier to pause, easier to notice, easier to learn.

    Learning A.I. in Your Horse Riding.

    Inside Connection, we’re spending October, November, and December diving into exactly this; how to use A.I. in your horse riding to review, reflect, and plan better.  Each month, riders get live “Review and Planning” calls and for the final quarter, I will be delivering new training to riders on how to get the best results with A.I. as their riding journal. Riders will be getting prompts to test out for themselves, and my feedback if they need it as well.

    It’s all about learning to use modern tools to enhance traditional equestrian training, not replace it.

    If this idea of half halts, reflection, and using A.I. in your horse riding resonates with you, I’d love for you to join us inside Connection.  It’s a completely new experience, rebuilt from the ground up, to help everyday riders (especially those working without a regular trainer) make steady, measurable progress.  Join Connection here: www.stridesforsuccess.com/join

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Online Training & Coaching

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • Why You’re Still Not Riding Like You Want To (And What to Do About It This Week)

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    There’s a moment I see over and over again with riders. And if I’m being honest, I’ve been there myself more times than I would like to admit! Maybe you can relate… It goes a little like this: you’ve got a horse and you’ve got the tack. You’re even lucky enough to have access to a place to ride… And yet, you’re not actually riding the way you want! Or even, not riding at all!

    Every week that goes by, you find yourself muttering the same old question on repeat in your head, “I know what needs to be done. So why am I not doing it?!”

    If that sounds even a little bit familiar, take a deep breath, because this post is for you.  Let’s dive into what’s really going on… And how to break that cycle this week and get you on the road to regular riding the way you want it to be!

    Motivation or Clarity

    After years of chatting with riders who are feeling stuck, I can tell you that less to do with being lazy, undisciplined, or uncommitted… Nope! So often, riders are not riding how they want because they don’t actually know what to do next! They have been stuck in the same way of doing things (riding or not riding) for so long that there appears to be no clear way out!

    Not riding the way you want is less to do with ‘getting motivated’, and far more about becoming crystal clear on what you’re working towards with your horse, what’s getting in your way, or where to begin.

    Instead of taking the time to honestly assess these things so that you can make a clear decision, you’re doing the opposite. Spinning your wheels with hours of aimless time in the saddle… Or, worse, you avoid riding altogether!

    Here’s a simple process to break out of the fog and start creating real momentum again, one tiny step at a time.

    What Do You Actually Want to Be Able to Do?

    Let’s fast forward to 6 months from now. It’s the end of the year (or whenever it is 6 months from when you’re reading this post). What do you want to be able to say you and your horse did?  And I’m not talking wishy washy things… So no ‘ride better’ or ‘feel more confident’ type answers!

    I want you to come up with something tangible, specific, and visual. Something that anyone would be able to see you do if they were watching. Something that can’t be disputed over whether it happened or not!

    Here are a few examples to get you thinking about what might be possible for you and your horse, depending on where you are in your journey together:-

          • Ride a full trail loop at your local nature reserve or along your local bridle path without issues
          • Compete in a walk/trot class at a small local schooling or practice show
          • Canter in a balanced 20m circle on both reins (with correct lead) without breaking
          • Ride a simple gymnastic grid with confidence
          • Compete in an in-hand showing class at a local show
          • Work through all three gaits with rhythm and softness

    It can be big or small, mounted or in-hand. The details will depend on your unique situation.  However, it does have to be crystal clear! And once you have identified ‘your one thing’, write it down! Seriously. Pen and paper! I personally love going to a local hardware store, getting some of the paint sample colour cards in colours I love, and writing on them. Then I pin them in places where they will be seen daily… Sounds odd – but, for me, this works!

    The Gap Between “There” & “Here”

    Once you know where you’re going, the next step is to look at where you are now and spot the differences! What’s missing?  Or what’s changed? It is so important to get as detailed as you can here. Yes, start with the big picture. But then hone in and really look for the little things that, right now, are not aligned.

    How are the ‘there’ situation and circumstances different from where you are right ‘here’ and right now?

    There are so many different ‘differences’ you might identify. Most of these will depend on, again, your unique situation. Start big. Look for the obvious differences, and then chunk it down. The smaller the ‘chunks’ or steps, the more ‘doable’ it will become for you to move from ‘here’ to ‘there’.
    Here are a few examples of what you might notice as being ‘different’:-

          • Your horse’s fitness (can’t hold a canter or gets tired fast)
          • Your consistency (you ride once a week, if that)
          • Your confidence (you feel anxious mounting up)
          • Your horse’s training (rushing, ignoring your aids, lacking rhythm)
          • Your riding skills (you can’t yet ride sitting trot or tell your diagonals)

    The key here isn’t to get overwhelmed by the list. It’s to get honest.  If you’re still struggling, imagine putting a video of you riding now or of your current situation side by side with the video of what you want. If you’re struggling to see yourself in the ‘there’ video, put current you side by side with a video of someone who’s already doing the thing you want… And remember, the key is to ‘spot the difference’; not berate, shame, or guilt yourself!

    When you can clearly identify the gaps between where you are and where you want to be, you can finally stop guessing what to do, and start actually doing something :)

    One Action in the Next 3 Days

    Okay, so now you’ve got a specific goal. And you have a list of the current gaps that need to be filled in order for you to make that goal a reality in your riding. The next step is to choose one tiny action that begins to close one of those gaps.  Tiny is the key word in that sentence! In fact, the smaller the action (remember, chunk it down), the greater the chance of you actually getting this done.

    This is where many riders fall into the trap of thinking that creating a plan is the action. Nope, it is not! Neither is making a decision. I want you to physically DO something. Take action. And, you’re going to do this within the coming 3 days. Here are a few real-world examples:

    For the Horse:

          • Fitness gap? 10 minutes working on halt-walk-trot transitions in the arena
          • No rhythm in trot? Similar; work on transitions between walk–halt–walk with focus
          • Spooks on trails? Lead your horse past 1 “scary” object this week
          • Breaks in canter? Practice trot-canter-trot transitions on the lunge.
          • Won’t move off the leg? Do 10 mins of in-hand responsiveness exercises.

    For the Rider:

          • Don’t know diagonals? Sync your ‘up’ ‘down’ with the forward and back of your horses outside shoulder in the walk. Do this until you can literally glance and know if you’re correct. Then try in trot
          • Too unfit? Commit to a 15-minute walk on foot each day this week
          • Feel anxious? Mount up. Sit or walk for 30 seconds. Then dismount. Done
          • No plan? Write down 1 intention and one exercise for your next ride, just one!
          • Not riding enough? Groom your horse 3 days this week, even for 10 minutes. Work on creating the rhythm first

    This doesn’t need to be dramatic. It just needs to be done. And done inside of 3 days from reading this blog post or listening to this episode! You’ve 72 hours to make it happen. And if you’re thinking that there’s no way you will get this done in 3 days, go smaller. Chunk it down some more so that the resistance between here and there (there in this case being the other side of your action) is minimal. Tiny. A step!

    Get Moving So You Can Get Clear.

    I see riders kid themselves over and over by believing this sneaky thought. The “I just need to get a little more confident/motivated/organized… And then I’ll get going.”. If you tell yourself that – stop! This thought is what’s holding you back. It’s the handbrake that’s keeping you stuck in the cycle of not riding how you want.

    You have to begin taking action when you don’t feel ‘ready’.  That’s what will build your confidence and clarity. Doing one small thing will move you out of indecision and start building your positive momentum.

    This can be as small as a 5-minute groundwork session. Or finally pulling out your planner and scheduling two rides this week.  It can be marking out 2 different school movements to ride tomorrow in the arena. Or it can be mounting up and walking to the gate and back.

    You have already identified what you can do. That smallest of small action steps. Now it’s your responsibility to get it done. Within the next 3 days. 72 hours. No excuses ;) 

    Review & Planning Call

    So if you’re reading this and thinking,“Okay, Lorna, I hear you… But I still don’t know what my action should be…”Then I want to personally invite you to join me this Friday inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook for a free live call.

    I’m going to walk you through:

          • Clarifying your 6-month goal
          • Identifying the real gaps in your horse’s training
          • Choosing one action to take in the coming 72 hours or 3 days

    It’ll be fun, low-pressure, and practical, and it might just be the spark that sets your next 6 months on fire! So make sure you join me there (or get the recording if the call has already happened).

    Personal Coaching to Get You Riding

    And if you feel that you want a more personalised approach, my private coaching program Restart & Reschool will give you just that. Every quarter, I work privately with a small group of select riders. If you would like to find out more, you can fill out an application HERE. There’s no obligation or pressure. Just clarity on whether this is a good fit for you right now in your riding.

    If you’ve been telling yourself for months now ‘I just need a plan. I just need someone to help me make it happen’, this is the help.  This is the plan, and it’s your next step.

    Make It Happen for You

    Okay, if you have been feeling down about not riding the way you want or as much as you want, you now have a plan to change that. You don’t need more time.  And, if you’re honest with yourself, you probably don’t need the new equipment or whatever it is you’ve told yourself you can’t possibly do without. If you do, your ‘next step’ is too big! Make it smaller!

    You just need to take one action that moves you toward the rider you want to be.  And then the commitment to yourself and your horse that you will go take it.

    I am so excited to hear what you do with this. You’re always welcome to email me lorna @ stridesforsuccess . com. Or, come join me inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Online Community. I’ll see you inside the group on Friday, and maybe even inside Restart & Reschool.

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    More on This Topic:-

    Online Training to Help Your Riding

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  • 3 Shortcuts in Your Riding a Pivo Can Help You See & Change

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    Instant gratification. It can be tempting to take a shortcut if it means you get the quick result. But shortcuts in your riding rarely have long-term benefits. Riding is one of those beautiful (and sometimes frustrating) journeys where the lasting results are usually anything but instant! It takes time, patience, and a good dash of humility.

    For most riders, the shortcuts are unintentional. But let’s be honest, sometimes it’s because we just want to feel like we’re making progress. And think, ‘what’s a few skipped steps if I get the outcome I want?’

    Here’s the thing, though… those shortcuts? They’ll come back to bite you in the bum. Every time!  So today, I want to help you spot a few of the most common shortcuts riders take. And I’m going to explain how a handy little gadget like a Pivo can help you both find them and begin changing them.

    Shortcut 1: Ignoring (or Rushing) the Warm-Up

    Okay, let’s be clear, I’m not saying you’re skipping the warm-up completely. Most riders do walk their horses around at the beginning of a ride. But what I’m talking about here is more subtle…

    It’s the difference between “warming up” and truly using the warm-up to prepare both you and your horse for what’s to come.

    You see, the warm-up is your golden opportunity to tune in to your horse. Are they relaxed? Forward? A bit tight through the back? Swinging and supple? Or distracted and carrying too much tension?  Your warm up should move both you and your horse closer to the actual work, in a way that makes you both ‘ready’ when you get there.

    Here’s where Pivo comes in; I want you to try this exercise next time you ride.  Take three short video clips, just 30 seconds to 1 minute each, during your warm-up. One at the beginning, one in the middle, and one just before you transition into the ‘work’ part of your session.

    Then later, watch those clips back. Can you see a progression? Is your horse moving better as you go from clip 1 to 2 to 3? Are you both ‘tuning into’ each other a little more?

    If not… Ask yourself, “What could I do differently next time?”  Then, next time you’re in the saddle, remind yourself of what the warm-up REALLY is… It’s not just about going through the motions. It’s about preparing both of you to work together. And video helps you see the moments where you can improve this connection every time you’re in the saddle.

    Shortcut 2: Trying to Do Everything For the Horse

    This is one I see all the time. Riders get into the habit of “helicopter riding”. Hovering, managing, micromanaging… basically trying to do everything for the horse.  They’re shoving the horse around the arena. Holding everything together. Making every decision.  And it comes from a good place. We care, we want the ride to go well, but it ends up blocking progress because we’re not letting the horse do their job.

    Here’s a truth that changes everything when you let it sink in: Your job is to ask the question.  Then, it’s your horse’s job to respond to that question…

    You’re not allowing that to happen if you’re forcing or shoving. Or if you’re trying to hold everything together so tightly that you feel like if you relax for even a split second – the whole thing will just fall apart! So many riders do this. And it becomes really obvious during simple school movements. Think circles or basic lateral work.

    The riders are just over-efforting. They contort themselves trying to “get it right.” Meanwhile, their horse never learns to take responsibility or carry themselves.

    Again, I think that the Pivo is the perfect partner to help wean you away from micromanaging!  Set up your Pivo and ride some simple patterns. Think large sweeping circles for greener horses, tighter and more accurate ones for more advanced horse and rider combinations.

    Then, as you watch the footage, ask yourself:  Am I doing too much?  Is my body remaining relaxed – or am I fighting to hold it together?  Is my horse being allowed to answer – or am I dictating the whole conversation? 

    If you spot yourself over-efforting, try pulling back. Release the need for everything to be perfect and right. Let your horse answer more for themselves. Mistakes are part of the learning! Trust that letting go a little can actually move you forward faster.

    Shortcut 3: Skimming Over Transitions

    Oh, transitions. The unsung hero of good riding, and often the most overlooked element in most schooling sessions! Too many riders see transitions as just a bridge. A way to get from walk to trot, or trot to canter. They’re focused on the destination and forget that the journey. It’s the quality of the transition itself that is what’s important.

    Here’s what I want you to remember:  Transitions are not just a means to an end.  They are training tools in and of themselves.  And will often dictate the quality of what you’re moving into…

    Every transition is a chance to improve your horse’s balance, straightness, softness, responsiveness, and so much more. And if you’re rushing them, ignoring them, or dreading them – well, chances are you’re missing out on so much goodness in your riding!

    This is another perfect job for your Pivo.  Start setting up planned transitions in specific places in your arena. Use cones, markers, poles, or your jersey if that’s all you have! Then hit record, ride the transition, and pay attention to just one element at a time:

          • Straightness
          • Lightness
          • Preparation before the transition
          • Relaxation and rhythm before, during, and after the transition

    You’ll be amazed at how much clarity you get when you start treating transitions as an important school movement in every ride. Rather than just a way to move through the gears!

    Bonus tip? Use the Pivo remote to hit record when you’re ready. Or better yet, talk to your future self while you ride. Share what you’re feeling, what you’re aiming for. Then, when you review it later, you get full feedback with your emotions and intentions as well.

    Let Your Future Self Be Your Coach

    Video gives you a different perspective.  When you’re in the saddle, you’re very much feeling into the moment. And sometimes, it’s hard to see what’s really happening. But when you step back and review a clip with fresh eyes, everything becomes clearer.

    That’s why I truly believe tools like the Pivo can change the game for riders; especially those who train alone.

    So this week, pick one of these three areas: your warm-up, your tendency to micromanage, or your transitions. And then use your Pivo, or any camera, to take just a few short clips. Let Future You be the trainer, and ask yourself: “What do I see here? And what could I improve next time?”

    Little by little, this is how you grow. Not through big leaps. Not by forcing or faking it. But by showing up, being curious, and learning to ride with more awareness.

    Keen to Try Pivo?

    If you’re curious about getting a Pivo of your own, I’ve partnered with them to offer you 10% off.   Just go to stridesforsuccess.com/pivo and use the code DAILYSTRIDES at checkout.

    And as a special thank you, I’ll also send you The Original Returning to Riding Audio Program. For free :)  Just email me after you order, and I’ll get it straight to your inbox.

    Video can 100% help you to really see what’s going on in your riding. And the Pivo makes it so much easier. The ‘zapper’ to start and stop the recording. The mic and earbuds to either speak to ‘Future You’ or listen to your instructor on a virtual lesson. And the fact that the Pivo itself will just follow you around the arena. Like magic ;).

    I really do believe this little piece of technology can transform your riding…

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Free Ride & Review Kit

    Want help getting started with video reviews, even without a Pivo?  I have created a step-by-step guide on how you can turn your smartphone into a trusty assistant in the arena.

    Download my free Ride & Review Kit here: stridesforsuccess.com/video

    It includes a short audio lesson and a checklist to help you make the most of every ride; whether you’re riding solo or reviewing your videos like a pro.

    More on This Topic

    Online Training to Help Your Riding

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  • Video to Improve Your Riding & Training When Working Alone

    [fusebox_track_player url=”https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/pdcn.co/e/traffic.libsyn.com/dailystridespodcast/1369_Video-To_Improve_Your_Riding2.mp3″ title=”Video to Improve Your Riding and Train Your Horse” social_linkedin=”true” social_pinterest=”true” social_email=”true” ]

    Have you ever noticed how you instantly start riding better the minute you realize someone’s watching? Your posture improves, you become more precise with your aids… And suddenly there’s a whole lot more attention to detail! Now imagine having that same benefit, even when you’re riding completely alone…

    Good news: your new training partner is already sitting in your pocket. It’s your phone! And starting today, it’s going to completely change how you approach your solo rides.

    Here’s exactly how you can start using your phone and video to begin transforming your riding and training sessions today. Even if you’re on your own; no instructor, trainer, or coach the majority of the time.

    Ride Better When Someone’s Watching…

    I bet you’ve felt it. You notice someone standing at the side of the arena or field, watching you ride. You immediately straighten up, sharpen your focus, and ride with greater intention. Especially if that someone is a person who you know is assessing your riding! It’s all part of being human. Most of us will try to do better when we’re observed. And riders are no different :)

    But when riding alone, you might not be as present and aware as you could be…  which you can turn around when you start using video in your riding

    When we’re alone, we can let things slip a little. Especially if we’re not feeling inspired or motivated to do our best. Your posture might ‘droop’ a little! Or your circles drift off into weird egg shapes. Whether or not you’ll ride clean, light, and balanced transitions feels a bit like rolling the dice!

    But here’s the thing: your phone’s camera can offer that same powerful accountability – without the stress of being judged by someone else… 

    All you need is a slight mindset shift. You know, instead of seeing your phone as just ‘your phone… Start thinking of it as ‘Future You’, watching quietly from the sidelines. Every time you glance over, let yourself remember:  “Oh, my trainer’s watching – Hey there Future Me!” Trust me, this simple practice can be enough to begin shifting so many things in your riding .

    Ride like you’re being watched… Because you are. And using video, it’s by your future self!

    My Own Experience

    Just last weekend, I was in the arena playing with my new training partner – my Pivo… And, looking back on the recording was fascinating. While I was ‘riding’, it all looked okay. Obviously, this was when I knew that my trusty little ‘Training Partner’ was following me. I showed up as I wanted. More attention to detail. More thoughtful in what I was doing and how…

    This contrasted DRAMATICALLY with the times when we were playing with the settings and ‘figuring’ it all out… Oh my goodness, how my riding ‘transformed’! I was ‘Slouchy Mac Sloucherson’! It was so uncomfortable to watch!

    But that is the key, right? If we’re only doing ‘all of the things’ half of the time or only on certain occasions when we ride.. Well, it stands to reason that we’re only going to get half of the results, right?! I learned a VERY valuable lesson. Ride how I ‘KNOW’ I should ride – all of the time. Not just when being watched or videoed!

    The key lesson from my Pivo experience? My phone, coupled with Pivo, isn’t just a gadget; it’s a training partner, holding me accountable every single ride with my Future Self.

    If you’d like to have your own little training partner experience, grab my free Ride & Review guided audio & review checklist BY CLICKING HERE  And remember, if you decide to upgrade your setup like I did, use the code DAILYSTRIDES at checkout to get 10% off your own Pivo.

    Confirmation Bias & Riding

    Here’s something that doesn’t land well for most of us; as riders, we often fool ourselves. A lot!  We naturally see what we expect or ‘want’ to see. We seek out what we already believe. Instead of what’s really happening. This is called confirmation bias, and without visual evidence to the contrary, these assumptions become your reality.

    Video is one of the best ways to begin noticing where you’re doing this in your riding… You get to see what’s going on – and what led up to it..

    Many riders will complain about their horse being fussy with the contact. And, true to form, as they ride along, their horse will become a little less than ‘happy’ with the contact.  But when they watch the video back, the truth (which can sometimes sting a bit) becomes crystal clear. Often, it’s not the horse! The horse is simply responding to the rider…!

    Or maybe you ‘know’ your horse loses balance in the canter transition.  But then the video reveals you’re actually throwing yourself a little forward each time. Not the feedback you wanted, but also, brilliant! Now you actually know what to begin working on :)

    Video feedback breaks through this bias, providing clear evidence of what’s really happening. Suddenly, you see the whole picture, identifying the real root causes behind your riding struggles.

    Create a “Progress Bank”…

    So, hopefully you’re feeling game to begin recording more video of yourself when you ride now.  And when you start consistently filming short segments of your rides, you get to begin building a bank. A bank of visual evidence, proof of progress.

    Even if your improvements feel tiny day-to-day, video doesn’t lie. Over time, you’ll see exactly how far you’ve come – especially if you’re using it strategic and you’re honest with yourself.

    Nothing beats the feeling of going back a few months and thinking:  “Wow, my lower leg was so unsteady then! Look at me now!” Or “Look at how consistent the contact is now!” Maybe even the pleasure of watching you and your horse effortlessly step into a balanced and light canter.

    Make this as easy as possible for yourself to do. Focus on short, specific videos of certain things. 5 minutes. Then clearly label each video with the date and what you’re working on. Trust me, future-you will thank present-you!

    Video as a Feedback Loop

    Here’s exactly how you turn video into your best riding buddy (it’s easy, I promise!):

          1. Film: A quick 3-5 minute video of you riding while being focused and intentional
          2. Reflect: Immediately jot down or voice-note how you thought it went
          3. Review: Watch the video when you have time; was your perception accurate?
          4. Act: Pick one thing from the video that you’ll improve next time
          5. Repeat: Keep this loop rolling; it’s a guaranteed path to progress

    Remember, you’re recording or taking the video so that your Future Self can watch it over. It’s for you, not for the world (although you can do that as well if you want!). 

    So, all of this sounds good, but you still feel unsure about exactly what to look for? I’ve got you covered.  I’ve created something special (and totally free) to help you: a. Ride & Review guided audio and printable progress checklist CLICK HERE.  It’s basically me in your ear for 10 minutes, guiding you through a structured ride while your phone films you. Afterward, the simple checklist makes reviewing your video clear and stress-free.

    Making Video Even Easier (and Better!)

    Once you see the undeniable benefits of regular video feedback, you might naturally want to upgrade your setup. A dedicated auto-tracking device like Pivo makes filming easier, providing hands-free tracking and clear, reliable footage every ride.

    Maybe you’re thinking, “This sounds great, but stopping and starting the camera sounds like a giant pain,”… I agree, which is why I HIGHLY recommend investing in a Pivo. 

    It is a no-brainer, brilliant upgrade. A dedicated tracking device that will automatically follow you around the arena as you ride. No hassle, no awkward pauses, and no missing half your ride because you ‘vanished’ into a corner!

    And there is a remote control to hit record or pause as you want :)  It’s just you, your horse, and the Pivo that actually keeps up with the two of you as you work in the arena!

    Thinking about making videoing your rides easier and smoother? If you’re leaning towards getting a Pivo, and you know I’m a huge fan! Make sure to use my special code DAILYSTRIDES at checkout. You’ll instantly get 10% off your order, making it an even easier decision. It’s just my way of helping you get started and thanking you for being part of our community

    Take Action Today…

    The big part of all this is that you have to get out there and do the work! And even if you don’t have your Pivo yet ;) you can still make a plan. Simply starting today with what you already have—your smartphone. Here’s your challenge: Film yourself riding for just two minutes doing something specific. A transition, circle, or even just your trot rhythm.

    Then, watch it back later today and pick just ONE thing you’ll improve next time. Tomorrow, film again. And notice the difference!

    If you do just this one simple thing, I guarantee you’ll have at least one big ‘aha’ moment that immediately makes your riding better. Get out there today and begin creating your ‘progress bank’ of video.

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Links to Similar Topics:-

    Online Training to Help Your Riding

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  • 15 Minutes or Less with Your Horse… For 90 Days?

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    Are you guilty of only looking for longer gaps of time to work with your horse? I mean, what could you possibly do in 15 minutes or less to move things forward, right?!  If this has been your thinking up to now, you’re not alone. I was guilty of this… To be honest, I think we have all been there. However, once I began to reframe what those smaller chunks of time could be, everything changed!

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of timeCLICK HERE

    What would happen if you began seeing the value in finding small gaps of time to connect with your horse? Using short, focused time periods—15 minutes or less—can be a game changer for you, your riding, and your partnership with your horse.

    Here’s why becoming more intentional (and excited) about the odd 15 minutes or so a few times a week can transform everything for both of you.

    The C Word – Consistency…

    So many riders want to become more consistent. And, a lot of them want to swipe some magic wand and make it happen! It won’t. The only way to start becoming consistent is to be intentional. And doing short regular things with your horse are just that.

    Especially when you want to get started with something, the short sessions are easier and often more effective for both of you. And because they are more likely to get done, they create steady progress.

    Your horse probably loves consistency, most horses thrive on it. Use this to your benefit and begin using each of those 15 minutes or less gaps of time to build something together.  These small moments, when repeated, add up over time. It just requires you to have a plan for them.

    GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD, 50+ INSPIRED IDEAS & EXERCISES FOR WHEN YOU’VE 15 MINUTES OR LESS WITH YOUR HORSE BY CLICK HERE

    Focus on Quality…

    I’m going to assume that you have something you and your horse are working towards… If not, you now have your ‘Step 1’ ;) Once you know what you’re longer term vision is for you both, you can then begin thinking about ‘smaller steps’ that will compliment or act as stepping stones to that goal.

    Which activity will make more sense for your 15 minutes or less with your horse; something fun, partnership building, or a training related focus session?

    Keep in mind that shorter training sessions can often result in a breakthrough for you and your horse. We often think that the longer the ride, the better. But fatigue plays a big role in both of your work.  So by keeping the session short and sweet, often you can achieve more. Especially when you’re consistent with them.  This applies to all 3 categories; fun, partnership, or training.

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of time CLICK HERE

    1. Fun

    Fun is enjoying the moment. The process. It is usually not an ‘end goal’ or ‘endpoint’.  We rarely say “I am struggling on through the mud now because I will feel like it was fun when I’m finished”. Fun is the actual activity. And, fun is for both horse and rider.

    It is something that you can do together and that has the single goal of allowing you both to enjoy yourselves and each other’s company.

    And please don’t make the mistake of confusing things that you enjoy  as being fun for all involved! You horse must enjoy the activities as well. I’ve created a free list with some ‘fun’ activities you can enjoy with your horse in 15 minutes or less when you CLICK HERE. Download it and put it somewhere you can quickly access when the next 15 minutes or so of ‘free time’ pops up for you and your horse :)

    2. Partnership

    No matter how long you have been working with your horse, you can always deepen the trust in your relationship. Short, meaningful interactions can really help to improve this bond between you both. And, strengthening the partnership will also help to improve the training. It’s a win, win :)

    By focusing your 15 minutes or less on strengthening the partnership, you can build trust, reduce anxiety, and increase your horse’s willingness to cooperate – especially in those less than ideal moments you encounter later.

    Your horse is always responding to your body language, mood, and energy.  By intentionally showing up with ‘partnership building’ in mind, you can strengthen the emotional connection between you.  I’ve listed some partnership building activities you can do with your horse in 15 minutes or less in a free download CLICK HERE

    3. Training or Developing

    This is exactly what it sounds like; activities that will help you or your horse to improve mentally, physically, or emotionally. And when it comes to training, I am a big believer in keeping things simple. Simple exercises that focus on simple outcomes. Having a time restriction of 15 minutes or less makes this even easier to apply!

    Often, if you are not seeing progress (usually because Fun and Partnership are not included in the plan), it feels ‘right’ to instinctively jump to complicated where training is concerned. Choose simple exercises and rather work on them through the filter of what you want to achieve in your riding.

    I am going to urge you think simple when it comes to training when working with your horse for 15 minutes or less. 

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of timeCLICK HERE

    More Opportunities – and Flexibility!

    When you are planning out the coming week with yoru horse, actively look for those 15 minute or less time ‘gaps’. Shorter time blocks are much easier to make happen, especially if you’ve a busy schedule. And then decide what approach would best help you and your horse make the most of that time together.

    Stop waiting for a large chunk of free time, which for so many riders are few and far between! Rather begin looking for those smaller pockets of time where you can do something valuable with your horse.

    Whether it’s practicing groundwork, working on specific exercises, or simply grooming, you’ll find that you have more opportunities to interact with your horse throughout the week. And because you’re intentional, they will act as stepping stones to your longer term vision.

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of timeCLICK HERE

    Your 15 Minutes or Less List

    Having a list of potential activities is a great way to get started with making the most of those smaller pockets of time. I’ve created one for you that you can download HERE for free. My suggestion is to print it off and then add to it over the coming weeks and months.

    When you begin to see the benefits of intentionally connecting with your horse during those smaller 15 minutes or less time pockets, you will actively begin searching for them in your week!

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    More on This Topic:-

    Online Training to Help Your Riding

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