Welcome back, riders!
I’m Danielle Pooles from Dressage Plus, and in today’s 100th Unstoppable Equestrian video blog, we’re diving into the power of consistent dressage habits — and how this simple mindset shift can have a huge impact on your riding confidence and progress.
This blog is part of my 8-part Rider Habits series, and while I may have said it before — this habit truly is the one that underpins all the others. Consistency is your secret weapon, your steady anchor, and your most under-rated tool in becoming the rider you want to be.
Watch the video below where I talk about the power of consistent dressage habits.
Why Consistent Dressage Habits Are Key
Consistency doesn’t mean perfection. It means showing up — for your horse, your training, and yourself — in a way that builds trust, skill and momentum over time.
This can look different for every rider. It might be riding twice a week or five times a week. It might be riding for 20 minutes instead of skipping a session entirely. The key is doing what you can, when you can — but doing it with deliberate regularity.
What Consistency Looks Like in Your Week
- Riding the same number of times each week (as best you can).
- Working on a specific movement or focus area regularly — not just once in a lesson.
- Turning up for your lessons, clinics, or coaching sessions on a schedule that suits you.
- Maintaining a training mindset, even on “easy” or non-riding days.
Inconsistent routines — like taking two weeks off, then cramming in five rides — can confuse your horse and knock your confidence. Consistency builds rhythm, trust, and calm progression.
Above, sponsored rider, Melissa Taafe. A rider with the most consistent dressage habits I know!
This Week’s Rider Challenge: Add One Extra Ride
To put this into action, I’m challenging you to add just one extra ride into your week. If you normally ride once, aim for twice. If you ride four times, go for five. It’s not forever — just a one-off to stretch your habits and see how you feel.
Even one additional ride can create a ripple effect: more relaxation, more connection with your horse, and a big confidence boost — especially during spring when horses often feel fresh!
The Link Between Confidence and Consistency
If you’re someone who struggles with nerves, anxiety, or fear around riding — especially getting in the saddle or cantering — consistency is essential. It’s what rewires your brain, builds belief, and quiets the self-doubt.
You don’t need to ride daily. But if riding is a priority for you, ask yourself: Am I being consistent? And if not, what small change can I make this week?
Need More Support?
If you’re unsure how to rebuild consistent dressage habits or want help overcoming blocks that hold you back, I offer one-on-one phone-based mindset coaching tailored to dressage riders just like you. Or explore one of my practical online mindset courses that fit into busy riding lives.
Related Internal Link
Don’t miss the final blog in this 8-part series: Transform Your Riding: Dressage Rider Mindset for Growth and Lasting Confidence
Helpful External Link
For more on the science of habit formation, I recommend reading this article on building better habits by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits.
Final Thoughts
Success in riding — whatever that looks like for you — is built one ride, one lesson, one consistent week at a time. Keep showing up. And let consistency be your quiet superpower.
If you found this helpful, please like the video and share the blog with a friend who’s ready to take one small step toward lasting confidence. See you next week!