What Excites Me Most About Coaching Horseback Riding

By Brittany Fex, Licensed Equestrian Canada Coach

Published on October 30, 2025

Every time I step into the arena, I’m reminded why I love what I do. Coaching riders isn’t just about teaching technique; it’s about guiding people and horses toward genuine understanding, balance, and connection.

There’s nothing quite like witnessing an “aha!” moment: that instant when a rider finally feels something click. Maybe it’s discovering a stronger, more balanced position in the saddle, or realizing that a soft, quiet cue can be more powerful than a loud one. Those subtle breakthroughs are magic.

“There’s nothing quite like watching a rider and horse find each other through softness, through balance, and through trust.”

I’m passionate about helping riders feel strong and balanced, both physically and mentally. Through off-horse fitness and groundwork, we build the strength and awareness needed to communicate clearly and compassionately with our horses. When riders start moving with intention, not just instinct, their horses respond in kind.

Some of my favorite moments happen on the ground. Teaching groundwork allows me to watch horses and riders begin to understand each other’s body language to truly listen. That mutual respect and softness carry into every ride.

I also love working with clients who share my values: kindness, curiosity, and a genuine desire to learn. Whether it’s a child discovering the joy of her first trot or an adult refining the quiet art of connection, coaching is about meeting each rider where they are and helping them grow, both in and out of the saddle.

At its heart, coaching for me is about connection between mind and body, between horse and rider, between effort and reward. And when those connections come together? That’s where the real magic happens.

About the Author

Brittany Fex is a licensed coach with Equestrian Canada and the founder of B. Fex Horsemanship & Equitation, based in Eastern Ontario. She specializes in developing balanced, connected riders through biomechanics-based coaching, groundwork and connection programs such as Thrive and Ride, and fitness programs such as Balanced in the Bridle.

📧 Contact: info@bfexequestrian.ca

🌐 Website: www.bfexequestrian.ca

📸 Follow: @bfexequestrian