The days are short and cold. It can be hard to get motivated to ride your horse during the winter season. It can really feel like an obligation rather than enjoyment. There are a few steps you can take to make your rides more fun in the winter. Get your motivation back!

Staying Motivated to Ride

  1. Make a playlist with your favorite songs to ride to. They can get your blood pumping!
  2. Take a lesson. Your instructor will give you new exercises to try on your own.
  3. Start a riding journal and jot down what you're working toward.
  4. Make sure you have warm clothes that aren't too bulky. This will make for a more enjoyable ride!
  5. Attend a winter show or clinic.
  6. Get off the farm and check out some new trails.
  7. Wake up a bit earlier and ride in the morning. At the end of the day, you're exhausted and short on time. Make it a priority to tackle riding first thing.
  8. Jot down some motivating quotes on sticky notes and put them everywhere- in your car, bathroom mirror, the barn, your work office...
  9. Ride with friends!
  10. Try a new discipline like working equitation, mounted archery, obstacle courses, etc...

Sometimes, it's a simple change that makes a huge impact. By altering your schedule or trying something new, you can find your spark for riding again. Don't give up! And remember, spring is just around the corner.

winter riding COWGIRL magazine
A group of horses ready to for ride. Photo by Bailey Alexander.

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