Confident Confident
and cool and cool
Eventer Alex Bragg shares his top tips for cross-country
success!
Alex Bragg is a farrier turned 5* event rider based in Somerset.
Have you ever noticed that when you feel nervous or worried about something, your mind can get really distracted and you find it hard to focus? Well, that’s because stress hormones are released that can disrupt the decision-making part of your brain. However, when you feel confident in yourself and your abilities, your body is more relaxed and that means you can think more clearly and, ultimately, perform better. So, whether you’re riding, taking a test at school or performing in another sport or activity, confidence is key to success.
This issue, I’m going to reveal some of my cross-country schooling secrets to help you feel extra confident. Let’s go!
Fitness focus
Fitness is super important when it comes to crosscountry riding. To increase fitness, work on raising your pony’s heart rate during training sessions –this usually means working them in a faster pace. But the problem with this is that the faster you go, the more at risk of injury your pony is.
So, how do you get your pony fit while minimising this risk? Research has shown that even the slightest increase in the incline of a hill can increase a pony’s heart rate even without increasing canter speed. This means that if you can do some of your pony’s fitness work on a small incline, you don’t need to go as fast to get their fitness levels up – phew!
TOP TIP
Ask your instructor or an experienced adult to help you come up with a fitness plan that is right for your pony – it’s important to work on improving fitness gradually.
Choose the fences you jump carefully to keep confidence levels high
Pick ‘n’ mix
Carefully choose the fences you jump while schooling to help keep confidence levels high. For example, if there are three of the same type of fence next to each other, as long as the height isn’t too dissimilar and something you’re comfortable with, opt for the middle fence –especially on an inexperienced pony. Why? Because having a fence on each side acts as a natural guide and helps funnel your pony towards the middle.
Feel the rhythm
Maintaining a powerful (but not too fast!), consistent canter rhythm helps your pony keep momentum into and away from fences. Once you’ve found that rhythm, the key is to not interfere with it – this can put your pony off balance or take their mind away from the fence. While training, focus on a long run-up to every fence and letting your pony travel forwards – once they’re set up, the less you do the better!
Feel confident
riding a new pony
Riding a different pony doesn’t have to be daunting - we’re here to help!
There’s something so magical about climbing into the saddle of a new pony. Whether you’re used to a steady schoolmaster or a cheeky competition pony, every ride is a new experience. Getting to know different ponies is one of the most exciting ways to grow as a rider and have loads of fun along the way. Let’s find out more!
did you know?did you know?
Ponies need time to get used to new riders, too! Give your relationship time to blossom and you’ll be set for success.
Pony all sorts
No two ponies are ever the same. For example…
• some ponies are laid back and gentle and happily plod along on a loose rein, whereas others are full of energy, with bouncy strides and always looking for the next challenge
• a well-schooled pony will feel supple, balanced
and light in the contact, but young ponies or those who haven’t done much schooling may find it harder to bend and stay in balance
• ponies have their own unique temperaments and while some are always trying their best, others might not understand your aids, or need a bit more persuasion
Why a new pony?
There are lots of reasons why you might ride a different pony. Maybe you ride the same pony at your riding school but one week your instructor allocates you a different one. Perhaps your friend suggests a swap where you ride each other’s ponies. Or even that you’ve outgrown your pony and are looking for a new one. Whatever the reason, being prepared is the key to success!
TOP TIP
While you get to know each other, ride a new pony in an arena or small paddock, and have an experienced adult with you to help out.
Before your ride
Take a moment to watch the pony in the stable and observe their personality. Are they curious and friendly, or a bit shy? Having the chance to groom the pony is also a brilliant way to connect with each other before you ride, and this will help you both feel more comfortable and relaxed.
During your ride
Once you get going, you’ll start to learn more about the pony and how to get the most out of them. Are they responsive to your aids? Do they prefer a light contact? Are they less supple on one rein? All these discoveries are part of the journey, so enjoy the experience.
Focus on the basics of your position – steady hands and clear aids. If something doesn’t go quite to plan, don’t worry –that’s all part of learning!
Fly by Fly by Fly by
Take control of pesky flies and bugs with our help!
Summer’s on the way, which can only mean two things – more time to ride and... flies! From tiny midges to persistent horseflies, insects can make life uncomfortable for your pony, so take control now!
What’s the problem?
Flies and midges are more than just irritating for ponies – they can cause other issues, such as…
• nasty bites and infections
• sweet itch, which is an allergic reaction to the saliva of the Culicoides midge
Rug right
Fly rugs and masks are a great way to offer your pony protection during turnout time. These super cool rugs offer head-to-tail protection and some even have a waterproof section to protect your pony on wetter summer days – awesome right?! Make sure your pony’s rug is a good fit – if in doubt, ask an experienced adult to check for you.
TOP TIP
When using a new fly repellent, apply it to a small area of your pony’s body first to ensure it doesn’t cause a reaction.
did you know?did you know?
Horse flies are most active during June and July and each horse fly has an adult lifespan of 30-60 days.
Spray away
Fly repellents are an effective way of keeping insects away from your pony. These products come in a variety of options, such as sprays, creams, gels and roll-ons. Whichever you choose, be sure to follow the instructions on how to use it.
