Heeding Your Horse Riding Instructor’s Advice: Why Taking a Break from Jumping is Essential

When your horse riding instructor advises you to take a break from jumping, it's usually in your best interest. Here are some steps you can take to handle such situations effectively.

Stay Calm

It's natural to feel frustration or upset when given a suggestion to modify your training. However, staying calm is crucial. Emotions can cloud your judgment, making it harder to understand the underlying reasons for the advice.

Ask for Clarification

Instead of insisting on continuing, it's wise to ask your instructor to explain their reasoning. They may notice something you haven't, such as safety concerns or the need to work on foundational skills. Understanding the rationale behind the advice can help you make a more informed decision.

Consider Their Expertise

Your instructor has experience and training. Trusting their judgment can be beneficial in the long run. Rather than dismissing their advice out of hand, try to see their perspective and insights.

Focus on Other Skills

Use this time to work on other aspects of your riding, such as flat work, dressage, or groundwork. These skills are essential for becoming a better rider overall. It's a chance to refine your technique and improve your overall riding.

Reflect on Your Goals

Think about your goals in riding. If jumping is important to you, a break might help you come back stronger and more prepared. Assessing your long-term objectives can provide clarity and direction.

Communicate Openly

Share your feelings with your instructor. A good instructor will appreciate your honesty and may help you find a compromise or alternative activities. Open communication is key to resolving any misunderstandings and maintaining a productive instructor-student relationship.

When You Pay for Training, Follow the Advice

Trainers say things like that for very limited reasons, primarily involving your health, safety, and the competence of the horse or rider. You should listen to the person whose professional opinion you are paying for and follow their advice.

If you believe your instructor doesn't know what they are doing and consider their advice unwarranted, it may be time to find a new trainer. You're paying for their expertise, so it's in your best interest to utilize it fully.

Why Pay for Instruction You Don’t Want to Listen To?

Riding while exhausted or angry can hurt your training progress. It can lead to the practice of bad habits, which can be detrimental to your skills and the horse's training. Listen to your instructor and actively seek to understand their reasoning.

In summary, taking a break from jumping when advised by your instructor can help improve your safety, enhance your foundational skills, and prepare you for stronger, more controlled jumps in the future. Approach these suggestions with openness and communication, and you'll be able to progress more effectively in your horse riding journey.