Perfect Practice makes perfect

Why Perfect Practice Really Does Make Perfect

Mindset & Confidence| Riding & Training
September 17, 2025•2 min read

Practice vs. perfect practice.

We’ve all heard it: “practice makes perfect.” But in riding, that’s not quite true.

If you repeat the wrong habit, all you’re doing is making it harder to undo later. That’s why perfect practice - quality over quantity - is the real secret.

Why it matters in riding.

Horses learn through consistency. When your aids are clear and repeated the same way each time, your horse knows what to expect.

But if your signals are muddled, inconsistent, or rushed, your horse learns that too. And once a habit is in place - good or bad - it sticks.

Perfect practice beats imperfect practice

Real-world example.

I once worked with a young rider who practised canter transitions every day. The problem? She tipped forward, clamped her legs, and used her hands to push. The horse learned to rush and hollow.

After correcting her position and slowing the process down, she practised fewer transitions but each one was clearer and most importantly, correct. Within weeks, the horse was softer, calmer, and the rider was smiling again.

How to make your practice “perfect”.

  • Slow it down: Don’t chase endless, poor repetitions. Do fewer, better ones.

  • Focus on one element: Hands, seat, or legs - not everything at once.

  • Use feedback: Mirrors, video, or a coach’s eye help keep you honest.

  • Reward consistency: Praise yourself and your horse for the good attempts.

  • Embed before stretching: Nail the basics before adding complexity.

Practice infographic

The bigger picture.

This isn’t about perfectionism. It’s about clarity and fairness for both horse and rider. Perfect practice builds confidence, trust, and long-term progress.

Because in the end, your horse doesn’t need you to be flawless. They just need you to be consistent.

Repetition makes habits. Perfect practice makes progress.

Want more practical training insights like this? The Equestrian Knowledge Hub is here to give you simple, straight-talking advice to help you ride and learn with confidence.

👉 Join our free Hub Facebook community and connect with riders who are working on the same journey.

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Lisa Todd is a UKCC coach, licensed mindset coach, and lifelong horsewoman. She’s run a busy livery yard, coached riders at every level, and knows the highs and head games that come with horses. No fluff, no jargon - just the real support horse owners need to feel confident and do right by their horses.

Lisa Todd

Lisa Todd is a UKCC coach, licensed mindset coach, and lifelong horsewoman. She’s run a busy livery yard, coached riders at every level, and knows the highs and head games that come with horses. No fluff, no jargon - just the real support horse owners need to feel confident and do right by their horses.

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