#topic week 4

I think the reason why body image can be such a big issue among riders is because we as riders are scrutinized so much. Firstly in lessons, trainers are constantly analyzing and critiquing, meaning they are always looking at the horse and rider to see if the rider is in the right position, if they need to move their leg forward or backward, straighten their back, bring elbows back etc.(This is not bad scrutiny necessarily, it's more the incessant amount we get as riders).  In order to improve in our sport, most people need someone with a critical eye there to tell them how to improve their position or how to get their horse to do what they want. Besides the trainer, there are always people watching at some point or another, either in competition or otherwise. People always focus in on a horse rider pair and unlike other sports, there are no other team mates, you and your horse are the main focus of attention. And then we get to online photos, with people critiquing left, right and center. It's no wonder many people become self conscious of their body. 

Getting over body image issues is not something that always easy. It's mainly building confidence in yourself and just focusing on what you love doing. The only person's opinion who matters is your trainer, if you have one, and they should only be critiquing how you ride, not how you look when you ride, your weight etc. I firmly believe that anyone can ride if they are paired with the right horse for them. Eq is not about weight, it's about position and balance, something anyone can achieve be they of larger size of not. So don't be turned off from riding because of looks. People will always look, they will always critique and analyze. But if they are already looking,then you might as well wow them with how well you ride. Remember that there is no "riding type", you don't have to be of a specific weight or look a certain way in order to ride. Anyone is allowed to love and be passionate about horses and this sport. There's no rule preventing that.

-heartford-equestrian