Fundamentals, Technique, & Mental Preparation

A few notes

First and foremost, it’s not just about riding. It’s about good physical preparation, but also a huge amount of good mental preparation. Knowing your tests - really knowing them - means you can ride the work and not be a victim of the pattern. Knowing how to influence your horse emotionally means being able to support them as they go somewhere new. This program will work on your own headspace, too.

Second, this program exists to maximize your test riding skills in a methodical way as you count down to your show. This is not level-specific, but you and your horse should be fit enough and ready for the level you’ve picked. If you’re embarking on a show journey at Intro or Training Levels, you may not need the same level of intensity in your work as someone going FEI, and this program includes options accordingly. Fitness and an appropriate choice of level is key.

This training plan is for you if...

Your horse has been working consistently and is welleducated at the level you're planning on showing. You should pick your show level based on what you're reliably capable of, not on what work requires hope to get through.

This training plan works for you

Life is full of unpredictability and variability, and this plan is designed to be flexible and work alongside life s other commitments. Rest assured, you can modify the plan to fit your schedule while staying on track with your progress. Some things to keep in mind as you make ad ustments

Regardless of anything else, your horse s comfort and soundness is priority number one. If your horse shows signs of discomfort, pause the plan and get veterinary help before doing any other work

During the program, aim for 4-5 rides per week, plus one hack day and 1-2 rest days

Tips to help you go further

The Private Ride iQ Member Community on Facebook is another great place to get advice and share your progress. Believe it or not, both are very important! Riding is an individual sport, but a support squad can have an immensely positive impact

Ride iQ and this training plan exist to support your independent rides, not to replace in-person coaching. When you have an in-person lesson, you can skip the prescribed Ride iQ lesson that s most similar for that week.

This 6-week-training plan combines