How does fear affect your horse riding?

Question

I have a fear of riding a horse, which does not appear totally uncommon. However, I am still willing to get on the horse - I just wanted to know if it will affect the way that the horse behaves when I am on him.

Answer 1

The horse is aware of your fear.  However, if you tell the stables that you are afraid, they will put you on a horse who isn't bothered by your fear.  My uncle has a hair that is as calm as calm can be.  You could set fireworks off her back and she'd just calmly turn around and look at you like "Come on, was that really necessary?"  Most stables won't put new (or scared) riders on a young horse.  They'll probably put you on an older, slower, calmer horse who couldn't care less if you decide to tap dance in the saddle.  

Don't worry.  They're big, but gentle.  Also, it's not that far to the ground.  It seems like it is, but I've fallen off some pretty big horses and I was unharmed (except for my pride).

Answer 2

It will make your horse nervous as well. He will get easily spooked or he may try and play up. You have to feel confident to ride well. The horse can tell how you are feeling so if you act and think confident, the horse will be confident. Remember, the horse knows!