AboutKaren Bell Expertise I can help answer questions in the basic training of the hunter or dressage horse, and I am certified to teach in these areas. I train horses in lower level dressage and instruct beginner to intermediate riders in dressage and hunt seat. Some of my students show locally as well. I can also help other newer instructors with any questions they may have. Also, I consult new farm owners on barn management.
Experience 4 years teaching, 17 years riding and training
Organizations United States Dressage Federation, American Riding Instructors Association, United States Hunter Jumper Association
Publications All my publications can be found on my website at http://bellequine.net
Education/Credentials Certified in dressage and hunt seat and stable management by the American Riding Instructors Association
Question When i was younger, a horse i was riding got spooked and bolted trying to buck me off. Since then i have never been able to ride in the same way and have only tried riding again a couple of times since then. I would love learn again as i used to really enjoy it but im so scared! Is there anything i could do to help me overcome my fear of riding?
Answer I have fallen off many times. I think the best thing for you, as with anyone, would be to find a qualified/certified instructor with a very quiet gelding (even a large pony) to use. Explain to them what you wrote here- that you have a fear related to a previous fall and communicate with them during the lesson how you feel as you are doing it. I have had people who are so scared but didn't tell me- then abruptly discontinued the lesson. It will take time for you to regain your confidence, but I guarantee it will happen. You must first find a quiet school horse to use and a patient instructor. I would suggest a facility that had a fenced arena with good footing-no "open" pastures in which lessons take place. Make the time to watch the instructor teach a beginner- and you will get an idea of what to expect in your lesson. Find a barn that will let you tack up and down the horse as well. Just being around them will help your confidence. Please write back if you need more help...
