Perimenopause and Horse Riding: Why Does Riding Feel Different? Nika Vorster

Has riding started to feel different? Perhaps your confidence has changed, you’re exhausted before you get on, or you’ve quietly stopped doing things you used to enjoy.

In this episode, I walk through a study of 1,629 female equestrians who shared their experiences of perimenopause and menopause. We look at what riders reported about physical symptoms, confidence, competition and coaching—and where the research has limits.

I also share three questions you can use after your next ride:

1. What felt different in my body?
2. What did I change or avoid in my riding?
3. What support would help me stay involved?

A change in your riding deserves curiosity, not self-criticism. You and your horse can find a way forward together.

The research: Bradley, S. & Mills, C. (2026), Breaking the silence: the unexplored impact of perimenopause and menopause symptoms of female equestrians. https://doi.org/10.1080/20533691.2026.2629210

What, if anything, has changed for you in the saddle? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.