No Stirrups, No Problem? The Thief of Joy Strikes Again

When my coach says it’s time to work without stirrups, I can’t help but think, “You, my friend, are a thief of joy.” Let’s be real—riding without stirrups is like trying to balance on a rolling log while someone yells, “Relax your legs!” Spoiler: It’s impossible to relax when your thighs are on fire.

For those unfamiliar, stirrups are those handy little footrests that make riding feel like a breeze. Take them away, and suddenly you’re clinging to your horse like a koala to a eucalyptus tree. Your legs wobble, your core screams, and your horse gives you that “What on earth are you doing?” look. It’s humbling, to say the least.

But here’s the funny thing: no-stirrup work is like eating your veggies. You hate it in the moment, but deep down, you know it’s good for you. It strengthens your seat, improves your balance, and makes you a better rider. Still, that doesn’t stop me from side-eyeing my coach every time they say, “Let’s drop the stirrups!”

So, why do we do it? Because one day, when you’re effortlessly gliding around the arena, you’ll thank your coach for being the “thief of joy” who stole your stirrups and gave you strength instead. Until then, keep laughing through the burn and remember: every great rider has survived the no-stirrup struggle.

Now, let’s break it down further. No-stirrup work isn’t just about physical endurance—it’s a mental game too. You have to trust your horse, trust yourself, and embrace the chaos. There’s something oddly bonding about the experience. Your horse might start off confused, wondering why you’re bouncing around like a sack of potatoes, but by the end, you’re both in sync. It’s like a weird, sweaty dance where the music is your coach yelling, “Heels down! Sit up! Relax!”

And let’s not forget the aftermath. The next day, you’ll feel muscles you didn’t even know existed. Walking downstairs? Painful. Sitting down? Even worse. But hey, it’s all part of the journey.

In the end, no-stirrup work is a rite of passage for every rider. It’s tough, it’s tiring, and yes, it’s a total joy thief. But it’s also a reminder of how far you’ve come and how much further you can go. So, the next time your coach says, “Drop your stirrups,” take a deep breath, smile through the pain, and remember: you’re one step closer to becoming the rider you’ve always wanted to be.