More haste, less speed... The Importance of Patience

After decades in the saddle and many years of training, I'd argue there's one thing that separates good riders from great ones - patience.

In our world of instant everything and quick fixes, patience feels almost old-fashioned. When we see highlight reels of brilliant rounds, we don't see the months, sometimes years, of patient work that created those special moments.

But here's the truth I've learned - patience isn't just a nice to have; it's the foundation on which everything else is built.

Pressure to Rush
As a younger rider we are focused on the destination and not on the journey, we pressure ourselves to get there more quickly. As we become older and wiser(!!) we enjoy the journey and the process of the training. This change in focus gives us more time.

We live in a culture that celebrates speed, and this pressure seep into our riding. Horses sense when we're pushing for something they're not ready for, when we're asking questions they haven't learned to answer yet.

I see this in my coaching. A rider gets on wanting to complete an exercise perfectly as soon as possible, but maybe the horse isn't quite ready. This is fine. Horse and rider learn best by trying things and giving the horse the time it needs to learn.

The Paradox of Patience
Here's the paradox: the more patient you become, the faster you actually progress. When you give your horse time to truly understand what you're asking, you both learn and then progress more quickly.

We bought a young horse recently, and decided not to rush the training. Allowing the horse to learn at its own pace using pole work and exercises. Keeping it simple until it understands what is being asked. This is key to keeping the horse comfortable and confident.

In my approach to training which emphasises the importance of rhythm, balance and control, patience is the invisible thread connecting them all. You can't establish a good rhythm by forcing it. You can't create true balance by rushing. And you certainly can't achieve real control through domination.

Patience in Practice

So what does patience actually look like? It's not passive waiting - it's active, thoughtful communication between horse and rider. It allows the horse time to develop confidence and strength.

Recognising when a horse needs more time to process a new concept. Celebrating small improvements rather than pushing for breakthroughs. Being willing to take a step back when progress stalls. And trusting your preparation rather than trying to "fix" things in the warm-up at a competition.

I find pole work in the jumping is a huge benefit to riders and horses in developing patience. It helps both to stay patient to and after a fence allowing the rhythm to be found. Being consistent in the training is key.

The Big Picture
Patience with horses teaches us patience with ourselves. It reduces the pressure and calms you down. As a rider this is very important!

It gives you time to remember why we all started riding in the first place.  To enjoy the relationship between horse and rider and the freedom it provides.

In our hurried world, patience with your horse is a radical act. It says, "This relationship matters more than quick results. This partnership is worth the time it takes to build properly”.

Your horse is waiting for you to slow down and to listen. The question is: are you patient enough to receive what they're offering in return?

By Francis Whittington, International Event Rider