There’s a saying that gets thrown around far too often, especially among adult riders:
“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”
Well, I’m here to tell you, as an equestrian mindset coach with 20+ years of experience, that this is absolute nonsense. Science disagrees. Your horse probably disagrees. And frankly, if you’re reading this? A big part of you already knows that change is possible.
Whether you’ve been riding for 30 years or you just returned to the saddle after a long break, your brain is not a finished product. You are capable of growth, progress, and yes, even learning new tricks.
Let’s Talk Neuroplasticity (Stay With Me, It’s Worth It)
Neuroplasticity is your brain’s superpower. It’s the brain’s ability to change, rewire, and adapt based on experience and learning. This means that the thoughts you think, the habits you build, and the way you respond to challenges can all be reshaped, no matter your age.
This is especially important in the equestrian world, where we often carry deep-seated fears, habits, or confidence issues from past falls or difficult rides. Neuroplasticity tells us that we can literally train our brains to respond differently, to build confidence, stay calm under pressure, and ride with more clarity and intention.
Yes, your brain can relearn just as your horse can.
Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset in Horse Riding
Carol Dweck’s theory of growth mindset vs. fixed mindset is a game-changer for riders.
- A fixed mindset says, “I’m just not a confident rider.”
- A growth mindset says, “I’m not confident yet, but I can build that with support and practice.”
- A fixed mindset says, “I always mess up in competitions.”
- A growth mindset says, “Every round teaches me something — I’m improving.”
The mindset you adopt directly affects how you train, how you recover from setbacks, and whether you enjoy the journey. A fixed mindset will keep you stuck. A growth mindset opens doors.
As your equestrian mindset coach, I help you identify those fixed thought patterns and replace them with ones that support growth, learning, and joy in the saddle.
The Power of a Positive (But Realistic) Mindset
Now let’s clear something up: I’m not here to tell you to “just think positive” while your horse bolts past the mounting block. A true positive mindset isn’t about ignoring reality, it’s about approaching challenges with curiosity, resilience, and self-belief.
A positive mindset helps you:
- Bounce back from tough rides
- Stay focused under pressure
- Train consistently even when progress feels slow
- Build stronger communication with your horse
Your mindset doesn’t just affect you it affects your horse, your performance, and your long-term joy in riding.
No, It’s Not Too Late
I’ve worked with riders in their 50s, 60s, and 70s who have made massive strides in their riding confidence. Why? Because they chose to believe they could. They embraced neuroplasticity, leaned into a growth mindset, and put the work in.
It’s not too late to feel calm at the mounting block.
It’s not too late to enjoy jumping again.
It’s not too late to become the rider your horse needs.
Just One Final Thing
Next time that old voice whispers, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” smile and say, “Watch me.”
If you’re ready to change the way you think, ride, and feel, I’d love to help. Let’s rewire the patterns that are holding you back and help you become the confident, capable rider you know you can be.
Ready to shift your mindset in the saddle?
Let’s have a chat. Send me a message