On this episode, I’m excited to have a very special guest on the show⁠—equestrian fitness and wellness coach, Ifa Simmonds! We'll talk about fitness specific to riders, the importance of your overall well-being,confidence, and how to kickstart your personal fitness journey. Plus, Ifa will share his advice for what we can do—starting RIGHT NOW, in the off-season—to prepare to meet your riding goals this year.

I'll also be sharing one of my many stories from the early days of my horse training career in my brand my new segment, "Long Story Short." This time, I'll tell you a story about a huge turning point for me at a clinic I was teaching decades ago. It was so impactful (a lightbulb moment so-to-speak) that it opened a huge door for furthering my understanding of horse behavior, and more importantly, the interaction between horses and their riders.

And in my “What the Hay? Q&A” at the end of the episode, I’ll answer questions from listeners about coming back to horse sports after a 10-year break, a rider who’s polluting her mind with negative thoughts, and whether or not you should post on a gaited horse.

Want your question answered in What the Hay? Email [email protected]

Show Notes & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Find More About Ifa Simmonds:

Ifa's Website, Equestrian Fitness Academy (EFA) & EFA Ultimate ifafit.com

Instagram: @ifa.fit

Facebook: Ifa Simmonds & IFA FIT Equestrian

Julie’s upcoming events: Juliegoodnight.com/events

Online coaching, memberships, and short courses: JulieGoodnight.com/join

Go to Juliegoodnight.com/news to sign up for Julie’s newsletter