How to be consistent and get results as a rider (Even With A Full Time Job)

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Did anyone else foolishly think as an adult you would have allll the time in the world to do whatever you wanted?

I’ve found that while I’m not literally running around in a clown suit, but life can still feel like a juggling act with a lot of demands on my time. Between running a full-time business, raising a family, and keeping multiple horses in work, finding time for consistent rides is no easy feat! But I've discovered a few strategies that help me stay in the saddle without sacrificing my sanity (or sleep!). Here are my best tips for squeezing in consistent rides, even when life outside the barn gets hectic.

Tip #1: Plan Your Rides

I like to take a few minutes each Sunday to map out my week. I'll decide what each horse needs to work on based on our goals and any upcoming events. For example, Monday might be focused on transitions or lead departures, Tuesday the horses have off because I have “kid stuff”, and Wednesday might be a low-key hack or a conditioning lunge, and Sat could be all about refining spins or lateral work. By knowing exactly what I want to achieve each day, I can make the most of my time in the saddle. And remember, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel every ride—sometimes sticking to the basics can be the most effective approach! And don’t try to school each maneuver every time you ride

Tip #2: Embrace Shorter Rides

I grew up always riding for an hour whether in a lesson or on my own, so this was a massive shift for me! It took me a long time to learn how to ride effectively in a shorter period of time, but trust me that shorter rides can be a game changer, especially on busy weekdays. Not every ride needs to be an hour. (I feel like I should say that again for the folks in the back-or at least for past me… Not every ride needs to be an hour). Sure, ride for an hour in lessons or on the weekend, but embrace 20-30 minute rides during the week!

And you don’t need to feel guilty if your ride is only 20 or 30 minutes—those quick sessions can be incredibly productive! I’ve found that shorter, focused rides often lead to better progress because they prevent both horse and rider from getting tired or frustrated. Plus, they help maintain consistency, which is key to building skills and confidence. Remember, it’s about progress not perfection!! A quality 20 minute ride where you make some progress is better than the hour ride you didn’t do. Plus, a quick, focused ride during the week can set the stage for a longer, more intensive session on the weekend.

Learn from my mistakes: Short consistent rides will get you farther than infrequent marathon sessions

Tip #3: Use Mental Rehearsal

There are days when getting to the barn just isn’t possible—whether it’s due to bad weather, a packed schedule, or life just throwing you a curveball. That's where mental rehearsal comes in. Visualization is a powerful, proven technique that many top athletes use to stay sharp and focused, even when they can't physically train. 

On those no-ride days, I close my eyes and run through my ride in my mind. I visualize every detail, from tacking up to executing perfect transitions. This practice has helped me and my clients build muscle memory, reinforce positive habits, and mentally prepare yourself for success so you’re ready to perform at your best the next time you’re in the saddle. It's made a noticeable difference, and I hear time after time after using mental rehearsal the next time a client gets in the saddle, they feel more prepared and confident; as if they've already practiced the movements. It’s like giving yourself a bonus ride, all from the comfort of home!

Balancing riding with the rest of life’s demands can be tough, but with a little planning, flexibility, and creativity, it's entirely possible to stay consistent in the saddle. Remember, it's about finding what works best for you and your horses and sticking with it. It’s not about being “perfect”, it’s about showing up consistently, even if it’s just for a short ride or a few minutes of visualization. Every little bit adds up. Have your own tips or strategies that help you stay on track? I'd love to hear them—reply to this email and let’s keep the conversation going!

And if confidence is something you’re looking to cultivate, I’ve got just the thing for you. I’m offering a free masterclass on how to create unshakable confidence as a rider. It’s packed with practical tools that you can start using today to build your confidence and strengthen your partnership with your horse. Sign up here: www.resilientreiner.com/RRA_free_masterclass_signup

I can’t wait to hear how this goes for you. Try it out, and let me know what changes you notice in your riding and your relationship with your horse!

Happy Trails,

Nicole