Ride Interrupted: Staying Sane 'Til You're Back in the Saddle

best thing any sidelined athlete can do. Dont take yourself completely out of the game instead find ways to stay connected.
If you cant ride your horse due to an injury then how about doing a little relationshipbuilding groundwork? Your relationship doesnt end with your teammate you just have to take it to a different level. Training from the ground can give you new and refreshing insight into your horse. By the time you are ready to return to the saddle you could be blessed with a whole new perspective with which to inform your ride.
Want another way of developing your ride from the ground? Ask your trainer if you can play assistant coach for the day. There is great opportunity in changing your role in your sport. Youll be using your time to increase your knowledge which will keep you feeling positive and goal oriented.
Develop a plan
While youre making the most of your horseless days start to develop a plan to get yourself back in the tack. If you are injured what kind of assistance do you need in terms of professionals physiotherapists doctors or other health care?  How about finding ways to cross train specific to your sport?  This may be an opportunity to find out how well you can ride after developing abs of steel.
Jenny a junior jumper rider with big goals was at first devastated by a bad fall that broke her arm. Suddenly her dreams for the season were in jeopardy. But she rallied all her energy with the focus on coming back better than ever I felt so much better when I made myself a plan. I got a personal trainer and worked on my lower body strength. I helped my coach with her horses and just hanging around like that taught me so much. I knew my goals were not going to happen when I wanted but I decided that didnt mean they would never happen.
If your horse is injured he or she will likewise need a plan of care. Time will be essential in any scenario but there will always be actions you can take to assist the process along.  Learn all you can about the type of injury and options for rehabilitation. Decide you are going to lead your team back not just to the status quo but to a better state. By developing a positive outlook even looking for that lesson