Riding as you get older

Barbara F · Grand Prix

Riding as you get older

IrideaClyde · Well Schooled

Thanks for the heads up Barbara. A really well written blog post. Being an older rider myself I can totally relate. I hope to ride until I cannot swing my leg over the horse. :)

Kathleen K · Well Schooled

I'm not "older" by any means, but I can certainly relate to the aches and pains part. Great read!

Geoffrey Pannell · Well Schooled

I think the only thing that has changed with my riding is the recovery the next day!!
I WENT OUT WITH SOME CLIENTS ON A TRAIL RIDE THE OTHER DAY TO A PLACE I'D NOT BEEN BEFORE, LOTS OF NEW AND INTERESTING LOGS TO JUMP, YES I COULDN'T HELP MYSELF, JUMPED THEM ALL!! Spent 5 hours out riding ,was a little stiff the next day.

AKBarbWire · Foal

Love the article! So true!

I am, I guess, a "middle aged" rider with empty nest, some disposable income (finally!) and a very fun & willing horse partner, I can think of nothing better than galloping along! I think he thinks so, too.

Queenrider · Advanced

I am a rusty rider who insanely decided I needed an unbroken 3 year old! I thought I knew a lot and I have broken many horses before but this one takes the cake. I had experts tell me that my last horse, a chestnut TB mare was very tough but we got along well. I thought she was my toughest challenge but the new one has exceeded that. He learns and behaves in a different way. This is the first horse I seriously needed expert help, with his training. He has been a humbling experience! If it weren't for my trainer I would have given up on him as he has had some tough patches. But we have pulled him away from the dark side and into the light and he is doing well. I certainly have hit the ground, more than once, as he taught me I was no longer any good at riding! Once I figured out he would do anything for a mint then that became the key to his training. I have never used treats before but this guy is addicted and will turn himself inside out to get a tiny mint.

Goatgirl · Advanced

well having hit the 50 mark this year...I'm an older rider...sighhhhhhh -- my body's older but my brain doesn't seem to agree.

I don't jump anymore - haven't for years - the desire to jump is gradually diminishing -

I still have 'moment's where the 'kid on the hayfield with her pony' - reappears - but for the most part - I'm quieter.

I still like to start horses - but more cautious - not willing to get on ANYTHING anymore -

don't think getting tossed is 'nothing' anymore. -- still have the 'crap that was embarrassing' mind set if I get bucked off or thrown' still climb back on and prepare to 'do it all over' if I have to...

I think more about the whys of things....listen more to my horse...

no longer dream of the 'lympics or international competition -- not only can I not afford it -- it's just not something I want to do anymore

I understand the phrase 'the Olympics are in your back yard everytime you get on your horse.'

I'm more interested in learning and getting it Solid - ...

All things are subtle when I think about it ...but put together -- I'm no longer a 'wild child on horseback' - I'm glad I had the experiences - but equally glad I've grown beyond them - if that makes sense.

justice · Grand Prix

Over 50 here, too. Got beat down and broken up early (18) but never quit. Prob'ly should have but I have always liked the kind of horse that enjoyed the eventing demands and showjumping paid the bills for eventing. I simply love The Ride, and because of The Horse, of course : ).

Now, because I DIDN'T quit riding, I am limited to more serene horses/rides and because of THAT, find myself a bit down sometimes. My brain does not acknowledge my body's limits either and find this hard to accept yet. Makes it harder to mount up, wishing or dreaming, or outright lying to myself that if I just had a groom, I would ride more often.. well maybe. I miss it, I am envious and yet so proud of all of you that still compete and strive for The Ride. I look at my beautiful horses and want to cry because they have no reason to understand their idleness and it is my fault. Just writing this has brought a tear for them : )

I still work regularly within the industry, likely always will by teaching, judging a few shows here and there, stewarding mostly, and filling in the volunteer hours with pure joy. I appreciate the knowledge and experience I have had the opportunities to acquire and am always touched that I am pleasantly, quietly recognized and respected : )

But I miss being able to ride with more heart, less pain : )... I miss my spirit.

-- Edited by justice on Monday 2nd of May 2011 07:48:51 AM

pbm969 · Well Schooled

Did speed events and ya'hooed around the country side as a kid on a very young/green horse. Had a riot. Fast forward 40 years, and I've realized it's a lot of fun and a great challenge to slow it down, working at western "dressage" type of training. Much more respectful of the safety aspect, and also much more aware that it's not all about the "ride", but more about the "lifestyle" of living with horses. I am so thankful every day, that I live with my horses in my yard, and am able to be with them in some aspect every day. I'm a lucky gal.