If you’re struggling to get your distances right, keep reading! 

You know the feeling: you’re approaching a fence, trying to find the perfect takeoff, but somehow it just doesn’t come together. Maybe you take off too close, or too far, and each mistake shakes your confidence a little more. It’s easy to start feeling like you’re just “bad” at finding distances, or that only certain riders are born with this skill. 

But here’s the truth: finding your distance isn’t magic—it’s a skill you can learn. With the right approach and a shift in mindset, you can start to take control, feel more confident, and stop relying on luck when you head toward a jump. Here are three simple steps to help you get there:

 Stop Saying “See a Stride”—Start Saying “Ride a Distance”
When we talk about “seeing a stride,” it sounds like something magical you either can or can't see. As if only some of us have the ability to "see". The truth though is that a distance to fence is something you create, not just something you see.
Think of it as “creating a distance” instead of “seeing a stride.” This small shift in language changes your mindset—it's not predefined, it’s a skill you can work on, develop, and improve over time. 

 Stop Overthinking—Trust Yourself Instead
One of the biggest reasons riders miss distances is because they overthink. If you’ve ever felt nervous about finding a distance, you’ve probably been in your head, questioning every little thing on the approach. This kind of overthinking blocks your ability to feel what’s happening beneath you.

The solution? Trust your training, stop second-guessing, and let yourself ride. Instead of obsessing over the fact that it can go wrong, focus on feeling your horse’s rhythm. Often, when you stop "trying hard" to see a stride and instead become aware of your horse, the distance will come naturally. 

 Use Mistakes as Fuel, Not as Proof You’re “Bad” at This
Every rider misses distances sometimes. But instead of seeing each mistake as proof that you’re not good enough, use them as learning opportunities. When you miss a stride, ask yourself why—without beating yourself up. Focus on the facts without judgement.

Maybe you needed a bit more pace, or maybe you got tense in your hands. Whatever the reason, mistakes are the best way to figure out what needs work. 

Ready to Dive Deeper?
Listen to our full podcast episode, “Getting Your Distances Right,” for more tips on mastering this essential skill. 

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With these simple mindset shifts, you’ll start to feel more in control, more confident, and better prepared to tackle any jump. Here’s to turning challenges into opportunities and riding with confidence!