Kathryn Howard - Accredited Professional, Advanced Coach

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.

Testimonials ...

Thank you for your expertise, patience, and enthusiasm throughout the entire session It is evident your deep knowledge and passion for carriage driving and riding is exceptional. Your ability to explain the intricacies of this art form and make it accessible to all is truly outstanding. Your guidance and instruction were clear, concise, and tailored to our specific needs, which helped us all grasp the fundamentals reallyquickly. You have infectious enthusiasm and a genuine love for what you do. Your passion was contagious, and it fueled our excitement and motivation to learn more. Your dedication to ensuring all our safety and comfort during the lesson was truly appreciated, and it made the entire experience even more enjoyable. Can’t wait for the next one!
Rachel Ball
I met Kathryn today for the first time as I audited a clinic I had hoped to drive at. I was excited before going but afterwards am impatient for our next. Kathryn had my four favourite attributes of a coach . 1.She put the welfare of the horses high and made practical solutions to reduce their effort . 2. Her knowledge is vast yet extremely clearly communicated. 3. She has been enthusiastic in the run up, during the clinic and even at the end of a long day! She made everyone taking part feel enthused, engaged and enabled 4 She was kind. This is so under rated in equestrianism. Tense equestrians make tense horses and I am a pretty tense person but I felt able to ask her my ‘silly questions’ and not made to feel ‘silly’ about them . She has that rare attribute of imparting confidence. Thank you so much Kathryn ! I am so very excited for next time, and excited about how I’ll become better for my ponies thanks to you!
Lubin Lukes

During a challenging time dealing with menopause anxiety, Kathryn provided not only exceptional equestrian coaching but also a supportive environment that allowed me to relax and regain my balance. Her understanding and adaptability were invaluable in helping me find solace and joy in riding again.

Claire Dome

Kathryn's guidance as our school equestrian team coach has been invaluable. Her dedication and expertise have not only enhanced our technical skills but have also fostered a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie among us. Kathryn's encouragement and strategic approach have enabled us to achieve remarkable progress and success in competitions. She is not just a coach but a mentor who inspires us to strive for excellence both in and out of the arena. We are grateful to have Kathryn leading our team!

Jane Jones

Kathryn has been an incredible coach for me as a para rider. Her understanding of adaptive riding techniques and her patience have helped me progress immensely. She creates a supportive and inclusive environment where I feel comfortable pushing my boundaries and improving my skills. Kathryn's dedication and encouragement have not only made me a better rider but have also boosted my confidence in and out of the saddle. I am grateful for her expertise and unwavering support on this journey

Sue Ball

After many years of riding, I sought Kathryn's expertise to refine my technique. Her attention to detail and deep understanding of horse behaviour have taken my riding to new heights. Her lessons are always insightful and tailored to challenge and improve my skills. She's truly a coach who knows how to bring out the best in her riders.

Lucy Williamson

My child has thrived under Kathryn's coaching. Her ability to connect with young riders is exceptional, instilling in them not just riding skills but also a love for horses and a sense of responsibility. I couldn't recommend her more highly for anyone looking for a coach who truly cares about their students

Mrs Jackson

As a novice in the equestrian world, I couldn't have asked for a more patient and knowledgeable coach than Kathryn. Her gentle guidance and clear instructions helped me build confidence with every lesson. Thanks to her expertise, I've grown from a nervous rider to someone who truly enjoys the connection with horses.

Ian Richards

I've had the privilege of being mentored by Kathryn in my journey as an equestrian coach. Her mentorship has been transformative, offering insights into effective coaching techniques and the importance of empathy in teaching. She's not only a skilled instructor but also a role model for aspiring coaches like myself.

Tilly Stevens

Kathryn crosses the exciting ride and drive divide with some great experience in both the ridden and driven spheres.  Kathryn specialises in youth and para coaching, unlocking potential and giving a huge confidence boost to those she supports.

An experienced equine trainer herself, she has produced some stunning horses and ponies, from KWPN athletes to Welsh Section D pony superstars.  She is known for her patient, empathetic approach.

Kathryn is a BHS Accredited Professional Coach, British Carriage Driving Accredited Coach and APEC - Advanced Coach with the renowned Centre 10.  She also has a great deal of experience in performance coaching.  We are delighted to be working with her...

Para Equestrian Foundation - Di Green (Team GB, Para Dressage)

Had the most amazing day today with my driving pony, we learnt so much in our session today with Kathryn and can't wait until our next one. I can't recommend Kathryn enough, she is lovely and kind and made me feel very relaxed which is what I need.

Kristy Green

A real star. I observe the way Kathryn connects with horse and rider.  It is wonderful to see. Kathryn has a natural empathy that enables her to coach a wide variety of people with ease. She gives her whole and undivided attention to the pupil in question with remarkable results. Kathryn is especially good with teenagers and treats them as an equal whilst giving them the skills to improve their techniques to get better results from their horses. Her coaching skills are second to none - highly recommended.

Lucy Heard

Kathryn Howard is an exceptional talent in the world of carriage driving. She has not only succeeded at a high level as a competitor in horse driving trials, she has excelled in the most prestigious Private Driving sector in the UK show rings. Kathryn is a proven trainer of driving horses and is known for her patient, empathetic approach with the horses in her care. She has a carefully planned (flexible) training regimen that the horses seem to appreciate and she has proven her complete adaptability over the past years. Even highly strung, or previously misunderstood horses relax in her care. She is meticulous in her animal husbandry and in her preparation of a future competition horse. We can highly recommend her coaching to anyone who aspires to driving carriage horses.

Paul and Frances Atkinson - International Equestrian Judges

Over the years that I have known and been following the progress of Kathryn and her team, I have been continually and increasingly impressed by the sensitive, knowledgeable and calm education the horses in her care receive. They are developed at their own pace and all without exception, become confident well balanced individuals that clearly enjoy their job. The horses are loved for who they are and are always exceptionally well turned out and well presented. I have known Kathryn for many years and have always admired and respected her values, empathy and knowledge. Can’t recommend highly enough.

Anne Tinbergen, BHS I, Advanced Assessor

Kathryn is a formidable talent, who excels in everything she puts her mind to. She has the skills and attributes to bring the best out of horses - regardless of their age or temperament. She also has the patience and determination to succeed, regardless of the challenge. I would have no hesitation in recommending her.

Alannah Hunt

I was at the point of giving up; my kind but excitable chestnut mare had un nerved me during the previous few years. Luckily I went to Kathryn for help. Her her warmth and positive approach quickly put me at ease. Through her patience and deep understanding of horses Kathryn gave me the confidence to overcome my fears. During the coaching session I was given advice on my position which allowed me to immediately feel more stable in the saddle. Kathryn’s style is very reassuring and confidence boosting. She has given me a greater understanding of what is going through my horse’s brain, encouraging a sense of teamwork and partnership between us. A truly positive experience. 

Antonia Mortimer

Kathryn has been an enormous support to my horse Chilli and to me. Her coaching style is relaxed and friendly and she is willing to work through individual issues at a pace which I can deal with and understand! She gives excellent advice and is able to see where a small change can sometimes make a big difference. Always positive and encouraging. Highly recommended.

Jacqui Cottenham

Kathryn has helped us with excellent, supportive and ongoing sessions with our horses.  She has enormous positivity and a “can do “ attitude, which builds your confidence.  I am so enjoying the development and growth. Kathryn has helped me achieve things I never thought I could. I would recommend her as a coach to anyone!

Colette Fowler-Marson