Q: I’m nervous about hacking and haven’t been in ages. I’m going again next week. How can I make myself less anxious?

A: Hacking should always be fun for you and your pony, so it’s important that you both feel confident before you head out. Don’t force yourself to do things you don’t feel comfortable doing, so if next week is too soon, then cancel now! You can go when you and your horse feel up to it.

When you do decide to go out for a hack, here are a few things you can do to make sure it is as fun as possible for you both:

• Keep it short. Don’t plan for hours of hacking if you are already feeling a bit nervous. Take a short hack, and then come home on a high!
• Take a friend. Having company with you will give you and your pony oodles of confidence. Just make sure that your friend is on another sensible pony so that you don’t get nervous because of their antics.
• Stick to places you know. Don’t choose a brand-new route for your first hack back. Instead, go on a route you are familiar with and that your pony has been on before.
• Time it right. Choose a time of day when your pony is used to working. Don’t try and take him away from his friends and dinner or paddock time – especially for this first time.
• Relax. We know it’s easier said than done, but don’t think of all the things that could go wrong. Instead, plan for the most fun ride you can imagine! A lot of riding success is in the mind, so keep your thoughts positive.