Olympic medallist Becky Moody, a mental health charity and individuals making waves to help diversify equestrian sport, have celebrated the power of horses in a training day ahead of the London International Horse Show.
The dressage rider, who will be headlining this year’s Your Horse Live (7-9 November), appeared alongside riders from Cool Ridings and representatives from mental health charity, Sport in Mind. The day celebrated inclusivity and wellbeing within equestrian sport, showcasing how the partnership between horse and rider can empower individuals and support mental health.
Sport in Mind’s Aysha Naziri and Cool Ridings founder Lydia Heywood were present alongside Cool Ridings riders Maddie Caunt and Jayda Everett. Cool Ridings is community of equestrians from a range of backgrounds, committed to celebrating diversity within horse sport.
“Cool Ridings is an amazing initiative, and it has been great to coach such a diverse group today,” explained Becky. “There is a perception that equestrianism is elitist, and all the incredible initiatives like Cool Ridings show that it really doesn’t have to be, but we have to work hard to help them grow and flourish.
“Sport in Mind too has already achieved enormous success across different sports, and the fact that they are now bringing their mission into the equestrian space is brilliant. Horses can change lives, but if you are not involved with them, you do not always see that.
“Both groups have brought together incredibly supportive people – and in this sport, the people around you make you who you are.”
During the training day, Sport in Mind’s Aysha spoke about the role of riding in supporting mental health. Becky said her network helps her stay in a good head space.
“I consider myself lucky in that I am quite level-headed – I do not let myself get too high or too low, which I think is healthy,” Becky said. “But the people around me – my coaches, friends, and family – have been vital in helping me through tough times.
“I have seen friends whose horses have genuinely saved them. The responsibility of getting up, caring for another living being, and spending time with them can be life-changing. Horses do not judge, they are grounding, honest, and comforting.
“If I have had a bad day, I will go and sit in [Jager]Bomb’s stable because, honestly, I would rather cry with him than anyone else!”
Sport in Mind’s Aysha highlighted the important connection between sport and improved mental health.
“There’s an undeniable connection between moving our bodies and improving our minds,” she said. “Regular participation in sport can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem, and help people feel more connected and motivated.
“It provides structure, purpose and routine – vital elements for those struggling with their mental health, while fostering social interaction and belonging.”
She explained that equestrianism offers a particularly powerful connection between human and animal, and that spending time with horses can be incredibly grounding, promote mindfulness, responsibility, empathy and calm.
“Caring for, riding, or simply being around horses can reduce stress and anxiety, build trust, and boost confidence,” Aysha said. “More broadly, across all sports we deliver – from badminton and yoga to football and walking, we see the same benefits: enhanced mood, social connection and a sense of achievement that reminds participants of their strength and resilience.”
Breaking down barriers
While the mental health benefits of riding are well-recognised, entering the sport can be challenging.
Cool Ridings’ Lydia acknowledged that networking can be tough when you come from a first-generation equestrian household. The sport is not just about the rider – it is about the team behind you, and that is
difficult to build when your family does not have horse experience.
“For a while, I have been something of a ‘Lydia Helpline’ for people in the community – helping others have positive experiences and create real pathways into the sport,” she explained.
“I would love for all our riders to train together and eventually have a dedicated base where young people can learn about the industry through a structured syllabus. I also want to be part of more campaigns that modernise the perception of equestrian sport.
“I was involved in one celebrating Serena Williams, and I think we can make riding feel relevant and exciting for the next generation. Collaboration is key – that is how we will achieve our biggest goals.”
Cool Ridings riders Maddie and Jayda said they have been given some amazing opportunities since getting involved.
“Cool Ridings has helped me come out of my shell,” said Jayda. “I was quite shy when I was younger. Lydia supported me even before I had my first horse, and the training days have really built my confidence. She has opened so many doors for us.”
Lead image of Becky Moody, Jayda Everett and Drewman Karisma. Credit: London International Horse Show/Peter Nixon
