How to build confidence in young or "tricky/quirky" competition horses

As an owner, it is so easy to feel the guilt when your young, green or talented horse isn't getting the consistent schooling they deserve. Life gets busy, confidence dips or sometimes your horse is just a little sharper than expected. That's where a professional rider can make all the difference.

I specialise in producing young sports horses, mainly in showjumping, and helping those horses labelled as "tricky" gain confidence, consistency and building strong foundations which serve them well thorughout their competitive careers, ridden careers and indeed their entire lives. Over the years I have seen how structured schooling, patience, consistency (and dare I say it, a ton of hacking and careful management) can transorm a horse from anxious or reactive to calm, confident and ready for competition.

Here are my 5 top tips for helping young or sensitive horses thrive:

1. Consistency is key - short but regular sessions beat long, infrequent rides.

2. Start with groundwork, flatwork, hacking - confidence on the flat or outside of the arena translates to jumping confidence.

3. Keep it positive - reward correct responses, avoid overly pressuring a nervous or anxious horse.

4. Introduce fences gradually - better to have a slow start and build confidence over smaller fences, focus on rhythm, balance, lines and turns to fences. These can even be practiced over poles.

5. Document progress - Celebrate the small wins, even just your horse TRYING. Videos help owners see real improvements.

If you're a busy owner, nervous about riding your sharp or sensitive horse, or just want to see your young horse progress, I currently have space for one additional horse in the CV32 area.

I provide calm, confident and professional schooling, keeping owners updated every step of the way. Your horse's confidence, wellbeing (mental and physical), and progression are my priority.

Get in touch today to discuss how we can help your horse reach their full potential.

DM me on instagram @sj_showjumping or email me: sarah@sjshowjumping.com

Haribo, a horse I have produced from a green 4yo and one I still adore riding