Menopause and Riders - Mini Series - Exercise and why its so important for riders

In this final episode of my mini menopause series I take a deep dive into what it's like to struggle with confidence due to the menopause and why this is.I give you some helpful things to think about and action so that this doesn't become the end of your journey with horses., as well as help you to not feel so alone.

In this episode, we tackle three of the most frustrating and misunderstood menopause symptoms - fatigue, sleeplessness, and brain fog - and explore how they uniquely impact horse riders.We’ll unpack why these symptoms happen, how they affect your balance, reaction times, confidence, emotional regulation, and even your connection with your horse. From the mornings when you wake up exhausted before you even step into the yard, to the days when your brain feels like cotton wool and simple tasks feel overwhelming - these experiences are real, valid, and more common than you think.You’ll hear practical strategies to manage low energy, support your nervous system, improve sleep quality, and stay safe and confident in the saddle even when your mind and body aren’t cooperating. We’ll also explore how to adapt your riding and horsemanship on tough days, without guilt and without losing progress.This episode is a must-listen for any rider navigating the mental and physical fog of menopause. You’re not alone - and with the right tools, you can ride through it with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

In this episode, we dive into the powerful role exercise plays for riders navigating peri-menopause and menopause. From unpredictable energy levels to changing hormones, joint stiffness, balance shifts, and emotional ups and downs—your body is moving through a transformation that directly affects how you feel in the saddle.We’ll explore why the right kind of movement matters more than ever, how strength and mobility support your riding position, and why consistent exercise can stabilise mood, improve confidence, and help you feel more connected to your horse. You’ll learn simple, rider-friendly ways to build resilience in your nervous system, protect your joints, and keep your seat secure even when your hormones are trying their hardest to knock you off balance.Whether you’re returning to riding, staying active through menopause, or simply wanting to feel more comfortable and capable in your body - this episode gives you the tools and reassurance to keep moving forward, literally and emotionally.Tune in and discover why exercise isn’t just “nice to do” during menopause - it’s one of your most powerful aids in the saddle.

In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked reality of perimenopause symptoms and how they show up in the saddle. From changes in balance, confidence dips, brain fog, joint stiffness, disrupted sleep, and shifting emotions - we break down how these physical and hormonal changes can directly affect your riding, your connection with your horse, and your overall wellbeing.Together, we explore why so many riders feel “not quite themselves” during this stage of life, how the nervous system and hormones intertwine, and why it’s not just in your head when your body suddenly reacts differently. You'll learn practical ways to support yourself, adapt your riding, and regain control, confidence, and comfort both on and off the horse.This is the honest conversation riders deserve about perimenopause - empowering, compassionate, and full of insight to help you keep riding strong through every season of change.This is part of my Mini Menopause series aimed at supporting riders through this chapter in life.

A short catch up episode on why I've been away for so long, navigating a big concussion, understanding how the peri-menopause has effected me and my horse riding and how the ponies are getting on.Link to the academy: https://www.alignedequitation.com/thealignedrideracademy Link to the meno calculator:https://zoe.com/menoscaleLink to concussion protocol:https://www.britishequestrian.org.uk/assets/EXTRA_Docs/BEF_concussion_guidance.pdf

Unlocking Your Horse’s Nervous System: The Key to Better Riding and Connection In this episode, we take a deep dive into the horse’s nervous system and how it influences movement, behavior, and overall well-being. Understanding how your horse processes information, reacts to stimuli, and regulates stress can transform the way you train and ride. We’ll explore how you can work *with* your horse’s nervous system to build trust, improve relaxation, and create a more responsive and confident partner. Tune in to gain insights that will help you connect with your horse on a whole new level!

This is just a short episode to say thank you, a huge milestone passed this weekend and I wanted to jump on and say a massive thank you.

In this episode, we dive into the surprising connection between your nervous system and your riding performance. It’s not just about technique or strength—how your body processes stress, balance, and movement plays a huge role in how you connect with your horse. Learn how tuning into your nervous system can help you ride more confidently, fluidly, and in harmony with your horse. Whether you’re struggling with tension or just looking to enhance your feel, this episode will give you the insights you need to ride your best!

In this episode, we’re diving deeper into the power of breathing as a rider. This is part 2 of our focus on breathing, and we’ll explore how simple adjustments to your breath can make a huge positive impact on your horse. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking episode that will not only get you thinking differently but also give you practical tips to support your horse through better breathing.

Are You Breathing Correctly? Transform Your Riding with Better BreathBreathing correctly is something I’m incredibly passionate about because it’s one of the most common issues both in everyday life and the horse world. Poor breathing habits can lead to a whole range of problems, from tension to lack of connection with your horse. In this episode, we’re tackling the basics: how to know if you’re breathing correctly and, if not, how to retrain yourself to breathe the right way. Let’s start here and make a real difference in your riding!