EQUESTRIAN MINDSET & PERFORMANCE COACH
Supporting Riders, Athletes & Para-Equestrians to Perform at Their Best
Kathryn Howard is an award-winning Equestrian Mindset and Performance Coach, specialising in psychological development, confidence, and elite performance for riders of all ages, abilities, and disciplines.
Based in the West Country, UK, Kathryn works nationally and internationally with riders, para-athletes, youth competitors, and coaches who want to develop not only technical skill, but clarity, confidence, and long-term success — both in and out of the arena.
Coaching for Riders at Every Level
Kathryn works with riders of all levels, ages, and stages of development — from those taking their first steps in equestrian sport to experienced competitors and professionals.
Whether you are:
- Building confidence
- Returning to riding after time away
- Developing a young or experienced horse
- Competing locally or nationally
- Seeking clarity, support, or reassurance
Kathryn’s coaching meets you exactly where you are, offering structured, empathetic guidance that supports progress without pressure or judgement.
You do not need to be competing, or aspiring to compete, to benefit from professional coaching.
A Supportive, Non-Judgemental Coaching Environment
Kathryn is known for creating calm, supportive coaching environments where riders feel safe to learn, ask questions, and develop at their own pace.
Her approach is:
- Encouraging and empathetic
- Structured but flexible
- Focused on confidence as well as skill
- Always horse-centred
There is no expectation — progress is defined by what matters to you.
EQUESTRIAN MINDSET & PERFORMANCE COACHING
Modern equestrian sport demands more than physical ability alone. Success depends on mindset, emotional regulation, decision-making, and the quality of the relationship between horse and rider.
Kathryn’s coaching integrates applied sports psychology, classical horsemanship principles, performance mindset development, and emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Her bespoke coaching programmes support riders to:
- Build confidence and resilience
- Perform consistently under pressure
- Improve communication with their horse
- Develop self-belief, focus, and mental clarity
Every programme is tailored — because no two riders, horses, or journeys are the same.
PARA EQUESTRIAN & INCLUSIVE COACHING
Kathryn is an award-winning Para Equestrian Coach, deeply committed to inclusive, athlete-centred development.
She works closely with para-athletes to:
- Build confidence and autonomy
- Navigate psychological barriers to performance
- Develop sustainable high-performance habits
- Thrive in both competitive and non-competitive settings
Kathryn proudly supports para-equestrian athletes with physical, neurological, and mental health challenges, ensuring coaching is empathetic, empowering, and performance-focused.
YOUTH RIDER & ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT
Kathryn has a strong passion for youth mental health and athlete development.
As a qualified Youth Mentor, she supports young riders to:
- Develop confidence and emotional resilience
- Build healthy performance habits
- Navigate pressure, expectation, and competition anxiety
- Grow into confident, self-aware athletes
Her approach creates psychologically safe environments where young riders can flourish without fear or burnout.
WHY WORK WITH KATHRYN HOWARD?
Kathryn offers a rare combination of MSc-level coaching education, advanced applied psychology expertise, UKCC Level 4 professional accreditation, and over 30 years of equestrian experience.
She has worked across competition coaching, breeding and rehabilitation projects, elite and grassroots environments, and both ridden and driven disciplines.
Named Coach of the Year 2024, Kathryn is recognised for her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, accessible strategies riders can apply immediately.
Her coaching is empathetic, classical, research-informed, and deeply human.
SPEAKING, TRAINING & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Kathryn is an in-demand speaker and trainer, delivering engaging sessions for riding clubs, coaching organisations, performance programmes, and youth and para-equestrian initiatives.
Whether in person or online, her sessions are known for being insightful, practical, and transformative — helping individuals and organisations elevate both performance and wellbeing.
WHAT OTHERS SAY
“Kathryn excels in explaining this art form’s complexities and making them accessible to all — a truly outstanding ability.”
“Kathryn is a true leader in her field. Her ability to connect with both horses and riders makes her an invaluable asset.”
“Our athletes benefit tremendously from Kathryn’s contribution. She adds enormous value to our coaching team.”
LIFE BEYOND THE ARENA
Outside of her professional work, Kathryn is a passionate horsewoman who enjoys riding her Barock Pinto and driving her Dutch Warmblood and Welsh Ponies.
Her deep respect for horses underpins every aspect of her coaching philosophy — grounded in patience, trust, and ethical development.
RESEARCH, EDUCATION & ONGOING DEVELOPMENT
Kathryn’s postgraduate research focuses on women’s wellbeing and menopause in sport, reflecting her commitment to evolving, inclusive coaching practices.
She continues to invest in her professional development to ensure her coaching remains at the forefront of modern equestrian and performance psychology.
WORK WITH KATHRYN
If you’re ready to:
- Strengthen your mindset
- Improve performance consistency
- Build confidence and clarity
- Develop a stronger partnership with your horse
Kathryn offers one-to-one coaching, bespoke performance programmes, and specialist support for youth and para-equestrian athletes.
Get in touch today to discuss how Kathryn can support you and your equine athlete — in the arena and beyond.