As the golden years approach, our perspectives and priorities undergo a profound transformation. This shift is not just confined to the more apparent aspects of life but also extends to the equestrian pursuits we hold dear. Horseback riding and showing, activities that often blend passion with sport, are not immune to the changes brought on by aging. Let’s explore how maturing affects our relationship with these beloved activities.
A Shift in Perspective
The Wisdom of Conservation
With age comes wisdom, and one of the first lessons many mature riders learn is the art of conserving energy. Gone are the days of reckless abandon, replaced by a strategic approach to riding. Older riders often develop a keen sense of how to use their bodies more efficiently in the saddle. This doesn’t mean a decrease in the quality of riding; rather, it’s an enhancement. By understanding and respecting our physical limits, we can enjoy longer, more fulfilling rides without overtaxing our bodies.
Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity
As we age, our appreciation for quality time with our equine companions often deepens. The focus may shift from winning ribbons to cherishing the serene moments of connection with our horses. This doesn’t diminish the competitive spirit but refines it. Older riders may choose to participate in fewer shows, selecting events that offer the most meaning or enjoyment rather than chasing every point or title. I won several world titles, I felt like I won everything I wanted to win and it felt like there was nothing left that I wanted to win and I almost quit riding completely. Then my focus changed, instead of what can I win, my focus became how good can I teach this horse to become? When my focus went from me to the horse, everything about riding horses became netter. If you want to watch a video about my equestrian journey you can watch, How a City Boy Became a Horse Trainer. My story.
The Evolution of Goals
From Competition to Companionship
For many, the competitive edge of showing horses softens with time, making room for the aspects of companionship and the therapeutic nature of simply being with horses. The goals evolve from external achievements to internal satisfaction. This might mean taking leisurely trail rides to enjoy the scenery, focusing on the training journey rather than the destination, or even mentoring younger riders and passing on the torch of experience.
Embracing New Challenges
While some aspects of riding may become less important, others come to the forefront. Mature riders often seek new challenges that align with their current capabilities and interests. This could involve learning a new discipline, mastering more subtle forms of communication with their horse, or even taking up horse showing in a different capacity, such as judging or organizing events.
Adjusting to Physical Changes
Adapting Tack and Technique
As our bodies change, so must our tack and riding techniques. Saddles that once felt comfortable might need to be swapped for designs that offer better support. Riders may also adapt their techniques to be gentler on their joints, opting for smoother gaits and more forgiving maneuvers. This adaptation ensures that riding remains a joy rather than a source of discomfort.
Safety Takes the Reins
Safety becomes a paramount concern as we grow older. The fearless nature of youth often gives way to a more cautious approach. This might mean wearing more protective gear, choosing steadier and more reliable horses, or lowering the intensity of the rides. By prioritizing safety, older riders can ensure that they continue to enjoy horseback riding without unnecessary risks.
The Intangible Rewards
A Deeper Bond
The bond between horse and rider can grow deeper with age. Mature riders often report a more profound sense of connection with their horses, valuing the trust and communication that has been built over the years. This bond is the heart and soul of equestrianism, transcending the physical aspects of riding and showing.
The Legacy of Knowledge
Finally, aging brings the opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with the next generation of riders. The legacy left by seasoned equestrians is invaluable, and many find great satisfaction in teaching and guiding newcomers to the sport. This transfer of wisdom ensures that the love for horseback riding and showing is preserved and nurtured for years to come.
Conclusion
Aging might change how we ride and how we show, but it doesn’t diminish our love for the sport. Instead, it enriches it, adding layers of wisdom, safety, and depth to our equestrian endeavors. As we grow older, we learn to listen more closely to our bodies, our horses, and our hearts. We may not ride as fast or jump as high, but the experiences we gain are immeasurable in their value. In the graceful trot of life, aging is not a hindrance but a different kind of journey—one that is just as rewarding, if not more so, than the vigor of youth. I have more helpful blogs on my website, HelpWithMyHorse .com. Thank you.
While I learn and appreciate every single video, I absolutely embrace this one as I approach 65! Still riding almost daily, weather permitting, but some days it’s just enough to be in the presence of my horse. Thanks again, Tim, for all you do.
As a 75 year old I especially appreciate this.
This is such a well written and helpful article. I’m a 66 year old rider. I don’t ride as fearlessly as I did when I was 15. That’s for sure.
You couldn’t have explained what i am going through any better. At 72 and with a husband who has Alzheimer’s. Sometime just being with my girl is all i need. She is good for my mind, body and most of all my soul
I very much enjoy your videos and I agree with your methods which pretty much match how I
used to train. I am 71 (how did that happen) been working with horses. all my life and have two horses one 17 yr QH that I trail ride and a 4 yr QH that is currently at a trainer. This is the 3rd trainer though no fault of his own, they misrepresented their abilities and lied about how much they worked him. How can you trust that they know what their doing and not lie to you?
Both had references, worked at nice places and I would come to check the progress once every few weeks cause their barns were a few hrs away. I would have started him myself but my husband said no. He is a nice horse I had ground driven and saddled him a lot so he was ready
At 76 I can relate to this. I still show competitively in English and western dressage. Interesting enough, when I was suffering consequences of a bulging disk, the only time that nothing hurt was when I was in the saddle. Thank God and physical therapy I am fine now,
Thank you for this post and thank you to everyone who posted here. I am 67, started riding at 55 (yep, 55!). I do not own a horse, but do ride twice a week with a wonderful trainer who knows every nuance of each of the schooling horses I ride, ensuring their comfort and safety and mine. I love riding cavelettis, trot poles and cantering, cantering, cantering. Everytime I groom and tack, I look at my horse and thank God for creating these awe inspiring animals. Wish I could do this 24/7. Sure, my knees hurt when I dismount, and that little ache in my lower back is barely noticable. Whether I mount or not, my heart and soul are connected to the horse.
Thank you for this post and thank you to everyone who posted here. I am 67, started riding at 55 (yep, 55!). I do not own a horse, but do ride twice a week with a wonderful trainer who knows every nuance of each of the schooling horses I ride, ensuring their comfort and safety and mine. I love riding cavelettis, trot poles and cantering, cantering, cantering. Everytime I groom and tack, I look at my horse and thank God for creating these awe inspiring animals. Wish I could do this 24/7. Sure, my knees hurt when I dismount, and that little ache in my lower back is barely noticable. Whether I mount or not, my heart and soul are forever connected to the horse.