Winter is coming

This member deep dive includes tips, exercises, and mindset work to keep you motivated as the the temperatures drop

Winter in the UK doesn’t just test your waterproofs – it tests your horsemanship. Short days, heavy ground, and changeable weather can make it tempting to do the bare minimum, but with a bit of structure you can come out of winter with a softer, more balanced horse and a clearer feel.

1. From Vague Intentions to a Simple Structure

Rather than aiming to “keep riding when I can”, give yourself a loose winter framework.

• Pick 2–3 priorities: for example, “improve our lope departures”, “build confidence hacking alone”, or “lighten our lateral work at the walk and jog”.

• Work in 2–3 week blocks: British weather is too unpredictable for rigid weekly plans. Set a focus for a fortnight, then review and adjust.

• Have an A-plan and a B-plan: A-plan for decent footing and daylight; B-plan for when you’re in the dark after work or the arena is frozen.

You’ll find this much easier to stick to if you jot it down – even a few lines in a notebook or notes app.

Photo by Donnie Rosie on Unsplash