Ansomé Pitzer - Equestrian Athlete

21/07/2026

Amazing 🙌🏻

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06/07/2026

Check your saddle (second or third opinions are never a loss)

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28/05/2026

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The Silent Struggle: Equestrians, Mental Health & The Importance of Kindness

The equestrian industry is often portrayed as glamorous, disciplined, and beautiful — polished horses, perfect rounds, early morning rides, and ribbons in the sun. But behind the scenes, many equestrians are quietly carrying immense emotional pressure, exhaustion, financial strain, loneliness, and burnout.

Horse people are some of the hardest working individuals in the world. We work in extreme weather, long hours, physical pain, emotional highs and devastating lows. We carry the responsibility of caring for another living being every single day, often while trying to manage businesses, jobs, competitions, clients, expectations, social media pressure, and personal struggles all at once.

Yet despite how connected the equestrian world appears, many riders, grooms, trainers, owners, breeders, and industry professionals suffer in silence.

Mental Health Statistics Matter

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 720,000 people die by su***de globally every year, with su***de remaining one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 15–29. Experts also estimate that for every su***de, there may be more than 20 su***de attempts.

In South Africa, mental health challenges continue to rise, while many people still struggle to access proper support, treatment, or safe spaces to speak openly.

The equestrian industry can increase emotional pressure because it often involves:

* financial stress
* public criticism
* social media comparison
* physical exhaustion
* injuries
* unstable income
* isolation
* perfectionism
* fear of failure
* emotional attachment to horses
* burnout from caring for others constantly

Many equestrians are excellent at caring for horses while completely neglecting themselves.

What Burnout Can Look Like

Burnout does not always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like:

* constant exhaustion
* irritability
* emotional numbness
* anxiety before riding or work
* losing motivation
* struggling to get out of bed
* crying easily
* feeling disconnected from horses
* hopelessness
* withdrawing from friends
* feeling like you are never “good enough”
* becoming overwhelmed by small problems
* losing joy in something you once loved

Some people become quieter. Others become angry, defensive, impatient, or emotionally distant.

Burnout is not weakness. It is often a sign that someone has been carrying too much for too long without enough support.

The Equestrian Industry Needs More Compassion

Unfortunately, the horse world can sometimes become extremely judgmental and unforgiving.

Gossip, bullying, humiliation, exclusion, online attacks, public shaming, and cruelty disguised as “honesty” have become far too common. Social media has amplified this problem significantly.

Many people in the industry are fighting battles nobody can see:

* financial struggles
* depression
* anxiety
* grief
* relationship problems
* trauma
* eating disorders
* burnout
* loneliness
* suicidal thoughts

A cruel comment may feel small to one person but devastating to another.

Kindness costs nothing, yet it can genuinely save lives.

Looking Inward: Are We Contributing to the Problem?

Mental health awareness is not only about recognising when someone is struggling — it is also about reflecting on how our own behaviour may affect others.

In the equestrian industry, negativity is often normalised in ways people barely notice anymore.

Before speaking about someone else, posting online, or joining conversations, ask yourself:

* Do I spread rumours or gossip?
* Do I speak badly about people behind their backs?
* Do I mock or humiliate others publicly?
* Do I make people feel excluded?
* Do I leave cruel comments online?
* Do I judge someone’s success, horse, finances, appearance, or ability unfairly?
* Do I participate in “group bullying” by joining negative conversations?
* Do I support toxic behaviour by staying silent?
* Would I say these things directly to the person’s face?
* Am I helping create a safer industry — or a more harmful one?

Words carry weight.

A rumour may seem harmless to one person but deeply damaging to another. Online comments, gossip at shows, WhatsApp groups, exclusion, jealousy, and constant criticism can slowly destroy someone’s confidence, reputation, mental health, and sense of belonging.

Not every battle is visible.

The equestrian industry is already demanding enough without adding unnecessary cruelty to it.

We all have a responsibility to create a culture that is more supportive, respectful, professional, and kind.

Sometimes the strongest thing we can do is choose not to participate in negativity.

Recognising When Someone May Be Struggling Silently

Not everyone who is struggling will openly ask for help. Many people become very good at hiding emotional pain while continuing to work, ride, compete, teach, smile, and carry on as if everything is fine.

Sometimes the people who appear the strongest are actually the ones struggling the most.

Signs that someone may be battling silently can include:

* suddenly withdrawing from friends or the yard environment
* becoming unusually quiet or isolated
* losing interest in riding, horses, or activities they once loved
* constant exhaustion
* irritability or emotional outbursts
* changes in sleeping or eating habits
* appearing overwhelmed all the time
* struggling to cope with small problems
* excessive negativity or hopelessness
* cancelling plans repeatedly
* increased anxiety or panic
* lack of motivation
* emotional numbness
* speaking negatively about themselves
* joking about wanting to disappear or give up
* working constantly without rest
* noticeable changes in behaviour or personality

Sometimes people do not need advice immediately — they simply need kindness, patience, and someone willing to listen without judgement.

How To Support Someone Who May Be Struggling

You do not need to be a mental health professional to make a difference.

Small acts of compassion matter more than people realise.

You can help by:

* checking in regularly
* asking if they are okay
* listening without judgement
* avoiding gossip or criticism
* offering practical support
* encouraging them to seek professional help
* including people instead of excluding them
* speaking kindly online and in person
* creating safe conversations
* showing patience instead of judgement

Sometimes a simple:
“I noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately. Are you okay?”
can mean more than you realise.

You do not have to solve someone’s problems to help them feel less alone.

As equestrians, we spend so much time caring for horses. We should also remember to care for the people standing beside us in the stables, warm-up arenas, show grounds, and everyday life.

A kinder industry starts with all of us.

What We Can Do Better As Equestrians

As a community, we need to:

* stop glorifying exhaustion
* stop humiliating people publicly
* stop gossiping about others
* stop using social media to attack people
* encourage healthy boundaries
* support young riders
* appreciate grooms and staff
* normalize asking for help
* celebrate progress, not just perfection
* create safer environments for people to speak openly

The horse world should not only care about horse welfare — we should care about human welfare too.

Asking For Help Is Strength, Not Weakness

If you are struggling mentally or emotionally, please speak to someone.

Reach out to:

* a trusted friend
* family member
* trainer
* doctor
* therapist
* mental health organisation
* support hotline

You do not have to carry everything alone.

Many people wait until they are completely overwhelmed before asking for help, but support is meant for difficult days too — not only crises.

Self-Care For Equestrians

Self-care is not selfish. It is necessary.

Healthy self-care can include:

* resting properly
* eating nutritious meals
* drinking enough water
* sleeping adequately
* taking breaks from social media
* spending quiet time with horses without pressure
* exercise outside of riding
* therapy or counselling
* setting boundaries with toxic people
* asking for assistance
* making time for family and friends
* allowing yourself to say “no”
* spending time in nature
* finding joy outside competition

Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is slow down.

To Anyone Quietly Struggling

Please remember:
your value is not determined by ribbons, followers, sales results, money, or competition success.

The horse world can be demanding, but your life matters far beyond this industry.

There is no shame in needing support.
There is no shame in feeling overwhelmed.
And there is absolutely no shame in asking for help.

Let us build an equestrian industry where people feel supported, respected, safe, and valued — both inside and outside the arena.

Because kindness matters.
And people matter too.

Mental Health Support Resources (South Africa)

If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, please reach out for support.

SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)

Su***de Crisis Helpline:
0800 567 567

24-hour Su***de Crisis Line:
0800 21 22 23

WhatsApp Support:
076 882 2775

Website:
https://www.sadag.org

Lifeline South Africa

Website:
https://lifelinesa.co.za

Emergency:
10111

Ambulance:
10177

In an emergency or crisis situation, please contact a medical professional, emergency service, or trusted family member immediately.

You are not alone, and support is available.

28 May 2026

By The Buy That Horse Editorial Team

© 2026 Buy That Horse. All rights reserved

13/05/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Cs2cEyH1c/

FYI.

You cannot waste a horse.

A horse who doesn’t compete is not wasted.
A horse who isn’t ridden is not wasted.
A horse who lives quietly, grows old, changes jobs, slows down, or does nothing at all is not wasted.

Horses are not resources.
They are not projects.
They are not potential waiting to be exploited.

A horse does not owe us performance, progress, rosettes, or productivity 🐴

Their worth is not measured in outings, mileage, heights jumped, tests completed, or photos posted online. Their worth exists because they are alive.

If a horse eats grass, rolls in mud, stands in the rain, naps in the sun, forms friendships, says no, says yes, or simply exists peacefully… that is not waste.

That is a horse being a horse 🌱

And honestly?
If anything is wasted, it’s the belief that animals must earn their right to be here.

End of. 👏🐎

07/05/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/1HTFZtA6Ls/

You know what horse people are really bad at?

Taking compliments. 🤣

Someone says: “You rode that beautifully.” “You’ve come so far.” “You handled that so well.”

And immediately we respond with: “Ahhh no it wasn’t that good.” “He carried me.” “We still have loads to work on.” “Don’t look too closely at the left rein…” 🤣

Meanwhile… we’d hype up our friends all day long. We’d tell them how talented, brave, kind and hardworking they are without hesitation.

But when it comes to ourselves? We shrink. Downplay it. Deflect it.

So this is your reminder…

You ARE amazing.

Not because you’re perfect. Not because every ride goes right. Not because you win all the ribbons.

But because you keep showing up. You keep learning. You keep trying. You keep caring.

That matters.

Own that s**t. 🖤🐴

06/05/2026

Best way I've seen it explained 🙌🏻

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The Bow, the String, and the Corset: How Equine Ligaments and Myofascial Systems Support Movement

Introduction

The horse’s ability to move with power, grace, and elasticity is not just a matter of strong muscles or efficient limbs—it begins with an integrated support system that balances the spine, lifts the trunk, and distributes force throughout the body. At the center of this system are the nuchal and supraspinous ligaments, which act as an elastic “bow” to suspend and stabilize the topline, and the abdominal muscles and thoracolumbar fascia, which form the “string” that lifts and supports the spine from below. Layered over this is the corset-like core system, a 360° network of muscles and fascia that maintains trunk stability, breathing efficiency, and posture.

When these systems work in harmony, the horse becomes a true “back mover”—elastic, efficient, and sound. When they don’t, the result is a “leg mover,” where the limbs overcompensate for a weak or hollow core, leading to stiffness, inefficiency, and strain. Understanding how the bow, string, and corset interact—along with the myofascial lines that tie them together—offers powerful insight into equine biomechanics, performance, and long-term soundness.

1. The Nuchal Ligament (Ligamentum nuchae)

Location: Runs along the top of the neck from the back of the skull (occiput) down to the withers, where it blends into the supraspinous ligament.

Structure: Made of two main parts in the horse:
Funicular part – a thick cord-like band from the skull to the withers.

Laminae – thin sheet-like extensions that run from the cervical vertebrae (C2–C7) up to the funicular part.

Function: Acts like a built-in elastic “sling” to help support the heavy head and neck without constant muscular effort.

Stores elastic energy during lowering of the head and releases it when the horse raises the head. Provides passive support to help stabilize the neck during movement.

2. The Supraspinous Ligament

Location: Continuation of the nuchal ligament — runs from the withers down along the tops (dorsal spinous processes) of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral vertebrae, nearly to the sacrum.

Function: Connects and stabilizes the tops of the vertebrae. Works with the nuchal ligament to store and release elastic energy during movement.

Provides a tensioning system that helps resist excessive spinal flexion (sagging of the topline).

3. The “Bow and String” Theory (or Bow Theory)

This is a classic model used to describe how the equine topline works.

The Bow: Represents the horse’s topline — the supraspinous ligament, nuchal ligament, and vertebral column together form the “arched bow.”

Provides passive elastic support.

The String: Represents the abdominal muscles, thoracolumbar fascia, and related ventral structures that run beneath the spine. Just like the string of a bow, they create tension that lifts and stabilizes the spine when engaged.

How It Works Together:

If the “string” (abdominals, fascia) is engaged → the “bow” (dorsal ligaments and spine) is lifted and stabilized, creating a rounded topline.
If the string is slack → the bow collapses, and the topline sags (“hollow back”).

Movement efficiency comes from the dynamic interplay between these two systems.

In Practice

A horse with strong abdominal engagement and free, healthy fascia → carries the back lifted, topline supported, and movement elastic. A horse with weak core or fascial restriction → bow collapses, supraspinous ligament overstretched, and the back hollows, leading to stiffness or pain.

✅ So, the nuchal ligament + supraspinous ligament form the dorsal elastic support system (the bow), and the abdominals/fascia form the ventral tension system (the string). Together they explain why posture, core stability, and fascial health are essential for soundness and performance.

4. Bow-String Model (Topline vs. Core)

Bow = dorsal support Nuchal + supraspinous ligaments + vertebral column. Provides passive elastic suspension of the spine and head/neck.

String = ventral support Abdominal muscles + thoracolumbar fascia. Provides active lifting of the back and stabilization of the spine.

This explains the horse’s longitudinal support — head to tail, topline to underline.

5. Corset Theory (Circumferential Core)

Describes the horse’s cylindrical, 360° core stability system:

Front & sides: re**us abdominis, obliques, intercostals, sternum and ribs, pectorals.

Back: thoracolumbar fascia, paraspinal muscles spine and ribs.

Support: diaphragm.

Floor: pelvic floor and abdominal wall. When these work together, they form a corset-like pressure system that stabilizes the trunk and supports breathing, posture, and locomotion.

This explains the horse’s circumferential support — stabilizing the trunk in all directions.

6. How They Work Together

The corset theory gives us the why behind the string of the bow-string model:

Strong, coordinated abdominal and fascial tension (corset engaged) = the string is tight → lifts and supports the spine → bow is effective.
Weak or inhibited corset = the string is slack → spine collapses → bow overstretches.

The bow theory explains the mechanics of how the spine is supported front-to-back. The corset theory explains the systemic stabilization around the entire trunk.

👉 In other words: the corset makes the string strong, and the string makes the bow effective.

7. The Thoracic Sling

The Unlike humans, horses lack a bony clavicle. Instead, the ribcage is suspended between the shoulders by a fascial and muscular “sling,” primarily the serratus ventralis and pectorals. This sling integrates with the ventral lines, corset system, and front limb fascial connections.

Provides shock absorption for the forehand. Suspends and stabilizes the ribcage between the shoulders. Links the forelimbs into the spine and core system. This makes the thoracic sling a key junction where the bow, string, and corset systems meet.

8. Hindquarter Connection

The horse’s true engine lies in the hindquarters, but for that power to translate into effective forward motion, it must pass through a lifted, stable back.

If the bow-string-corset system is active → energy flows forward smoothly, lifting the withers and freeing the shoulders. If the system is collapsed → power from behind “leaks,” forcing the limbs to overwork, leading to shortened stride and uneven loading.

9. Elastic Energy Recycling

Fascia, tendons, and ligaments don’t just stabilize—they act like https://koperequine.com/the-bow-the-string-and-the-corset-how-equine-ligaments-and-myofascial-systems-support-movement/

07/04/2026

No regrets 🙌🏻

31/03/2026

Your best is enough 🙏🏻

Give yourself more credit.

Because what people don’t always see…
is how much you’re holding at once.

You’re showing up to the yard
while your head is busy.

You’re caring for your horse
while quietly trying to care for yourself.

You’re trying to grow…
while still carrying parts of you that are healing.

You’re trying to be present…
while your mind sometimes drifts to the past
or worries about what’s ahead.

And still…

you turn up.
you tack up.
you try again.

Horses have this way of meeting us exactly where we are.

They don’t ask if you’ve got it all figured out.
They don’t expect perfection.

They just notice…

your breathing
your energy
your honesty

And in that space, something shifts.

So if today feels a bit heavy…
if you feel like you’re juggling more than you let on…

just remember:

You’re not behind.
You’re not failing.
You’re not “too much.”

You’re doing something incredibly hard…

and you’re still going.

That counts.
More than you probably realise 💜

23/03/2026

Wise words 🙏🏻