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boon
Posts: 1
| Haveing a hard time getting back in the saddle after some health issues. Ive gained a little weight and am about 180# right now (5'9") and i feel so bad about even going to a barrel race because im afriad to face people in this new body and while im not at my best. My horses are in fantasstic shape and condition and ready to perform but now that ive been off for a while, im a bit behind my horses. I just am afraid to get in the arena and take my runs at my pace and have people judge me for it or judge my horses. I have been riding at home and gaining back my strength and confidence but now its time to get back on the road and im so afraid. And people dont know what ive been thru and will probly just think im someone who doesnt know anything about the sport or care about conditioning or that i "suck" or whatever they may think. I just need to get back at it...How do you overcome all this? I was a great barrel racer and always in the money prior to my health decline and now going back in front of people as an average and not so confident rider...thats so hard. |
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Expert
Posts: 1409
 
Location: Oklahoma | Change your focus You are focusing too much on yourself. Don't mean it mean but it makes a world of difference when you change what you focus. you are focusing on yourself negativity which we have all done. Focus on the positive did you do your homework at home? |
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 Born not Made
Posts: 2931
 
Location: North Dakota | kwgrl16 - 2016-05-03 1:24 PM Haveing a hard time getting back in the saddle after some health issues. Ive gained a little weight and am about 180# right now (5'9") and i feel so bad about even going to a barrel race because im afriad to face people in this new body and while im not at my best. My horses are in fantasstic shape and condition and ready to perform but now that ive been off for a while, im a bit behind my horses. I just am afraid to get in the arena and take my runs at my pace and have people judge me for it or judge my horses. I have been riding at home and gaining back my strength and confidence but now its time to get back on the road and im so afraid. And people dont know what ive been thru and will probly just think im someone who doesnt know anything about the sport or care about conditioning or that i "suck" or whatever they may think. I just need to get back at it...How do you overcome all this? I was a great barrel racer and always in the money prior to my health decline and now going back in front of people as an average and not so confident rider...thats so hard.
I'm seeing lots of negativity in your post; negativity toward yourself.
Where is the negativitiy coming from? Why?
Frankly, I don't give a lick what other people think about me. I know what I need to do with my horses, and what I want to accomplish on a particular day. Yes, I've entered a barrel race and trotted my horse through the pattern. Because at the time, that's what he needed.
Don't worry about other people. Let them judge. Who cares? Worry about YOURSELF and YOUR HORSES and follow your game plan, and do what you came to do!
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 Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where | Why worry about it? Can you pay your bills with their opinions? If you want to go run, then go enjoy it....it's not about other people. Who gives a rip what they think?
Other people spend a lot less time caring about what you do than you'd think. They are mostly there to enjoy the day and focus on themselves.....not others. |
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I just read the headlines
Posts: 4483
| About the only way I could get over the same thing was just go. I went with a buddy who I know really well and her daughter who has just started barrel racing. She and I are about the same size and yes we do and are trying to lose weight. She could care less what anybody says about her weight or her riding and it has rubbed a little bit off on me. Honestly, I haven't heard anyone young or old say a word because there are several ladies out there in the same boat. It doesn't bother them and no one seems to notice. I think a lot is in our heads, more a reflection of how we feel about ourselves than what other people are thinking. GO HAVE FUN and DON'T overthink.  |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1037
| Biggest thing that helped me is SMALL GOALS.
If you already know that you arent in tip top shape to go out there and win right now, concentrate on the little things and set your goals from there.
Right now my only goal is to not run past the 1st, and keeping my horse calm and comfortable. I dont think about anything else but that. Building on that from there.
I had a 8 year break from barrels after having 2 super nice horses, and Im just as proud of my 4D runs now on my new guy. At the end of the day all that matters is how you feel about yourself not what others think. I think maybe you have all that negativity built up in your head, most people are focused on themselves and their horses not others. |
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 Off the Wall Wacky
Posts: 2981
Location: Louisiana | Girl, I'm 180 and only 5'4"!! Am I proud of that? Heck no, I gained 30 pounds in less than a year. The last 5 pounds really knocked my balance out of whack. I'm running rodeo caliber horses, I look like a monkey sometimes. I know it's hard when your confidence gets knocked, but just get out there an do it. The majority of people aren't running in the top 2 divisions anyway, no shame in slowing down a bit, or a lot!!
My mom high lopes, I can't get her to run lol. BUT, she's out there having fun!! She gets to visit with her friends, and hauls a little girl she helps. She isn't worried about being fast, she hits the 4-5D $$ here and there and she's happy with that.
If you need a boost in yourself, start working out. Walk, jog, do some yoga, anything. You will feel better about yourself, and that confidence will transfer to your horses.
I had a fall awhile back, the next run I panicked in the alleyway, loped to the first and almost fell off again-at a lope. My fear made me clam up, I lost both stirrups and just grabbed the horn. To anyone who didn't know me, it looked like I had never sat on a barrel horse.
The next night I had entered a rodeo. My husband gave me a pep talk, and literally ran down the alley behind my horse yelling like I was at the NFR. I won 3rd that night. It's all in your head!!! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 634
| Don't worry about what anyone else thinks, go out there and have fun!!!!! I race against MYSELF every weekend and try to beat MY BEST TIME in that arena. Yes, I have a 1D horse but I don't care if someone else comes in and runs a 14.0. If my best time in that arena is a 14.3, that's what I'm trying to beat. You have to set goals for yourself and try to beat them and not worry about everyone else. It's hard, but you will get more satisfaction beating your arena best of an 18.0 with a 17.8 at the end of the day. Go have fun. People are going to hate, that's their problem, not yours. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 408
| I saw this today and I thought this could help not just to you but many of us!!
10 things to give up to live a happier life:
1. Limiting Beliefs
2. Dwelling on the past
3. Worrying about the future
4. NEGATIVE SELF TALK
5. THE NEED TO IMPRESS OTHERS
6. Complaining
7. The need to always be right
8. Resistance to change
9. Blaming others
10. THE NEED OF OTHER'S APPROVAL
Get out there and ride your horses!!!! The opinion that truly matters is your own!!!! Be kind to yourself!!!  |
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 Lived to tell about it and will never do it again
Posts: 5408
| Everyday that we wake up, put our feet on the floor and are free to do what we want is a GREAT day. Enjoy it and yourself!!!!! If others have a problem with that so be it, that is their problem not yours. If I never did anything out of fear of what people thought, them laughing about me or embarrassing myself then I wouldn't have ever won the things that I have won and would have missed out on a lifetime FUN!!!! GO FOR IT |
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 A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | Why are you thinking people are being mean to you, you havent even been to a race yet. I think your the one being hard on yourself, give others a chance.
Go to the barrel races and enjoy what you have in barrel horses show yourself that you can do it, dont worry about what someone else MIGHT be thinking of you, GO and have fun. I think your going to be surprise that no one will be giving you a hard time.. Now go and ride your ponys 
Edited by Southtxponygirl 2016-05-03 11:02 PM
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 Not Afraid to Work
Posts: 4717
| Lookup the forum cowgirls with curves. It has so many stories of barrel racers finding success with a less than ideal figure. Remember, people judge. Its the unfortunate reality but they will judge you on your size or they will judge you on your hairstyle. You cant let judgmental people control your happiness. Go have fun, enjoy the ride! |
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 Expert
Posts: 3782
Location: Gainesville, TX | Did you know they actually have a barrel racing minimum weight in Brazil? 165 lbs so mostly men barrel race. Crazy huh. And lots of them are successful at the higher weights. A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago. I have recently gained a bunch of weight from being pregnant and my balance is off kilter too. I am not hauling right now but I am losing weight to be where I want to be. You really are your own limiting factor. Just go and enjoy and if you want to lose work on that too. |
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 A very grounded girl
Posts: 5052
Location: Moving soon..... | I'm 5.4 and weigh 169. I am loosing but I really do not care what anyone thinks of me. I have a wonderful husband and a great mount. My gelding takes care of me. Just go out and make a run for you and no one else. |
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Location: Not Where I Want to Be | oija - 2016-05-03 4:05 PM A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago.
who was it?
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1165
Location: California | My health has also declined. While I have not gained weight I have a lot of muscle weakness and chronic fatigue. Due to all the some days it takes every ounce of strength I have to try my best to ride correctly. Most days I'm ok enough but at the last race my made found another gear and I almost came off twice. There are many times I've had people tell me I need lessons when I'm having a bad day, I just nod and say thank you. They have no idea the challenges I face in my everyday life or my experience level. I go out and keep at it because its what I love. I don't care what other people think, my saint of a mare works her heart out for me no matter what kind of day I'm having. Barrel racing is my me time and a great relaxation/stress reducing time.
Your why needs to be bigger then any excuse. |
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 Firecracker Dog Lover
Posts: 3175
| Try not to be so hard on yourself. I will not mention my weight on here but suffice it to say it's more than you. My horses have been out of commission for a couple of years now. I have AWESOME friends who let me borrow their horses to run so when I get a chance I do it. I gave up feeling self conscious long ago. If I am having fun, am balanced in the saddle, and the horse I am riding is enjoying its job, then I am okay. Here is a picture of me on said borrowed horse last fall - critique away, one of the best runs I've ever made in that particular arena and I smile every time I see it and I don't care what people think of my weight. Life is too short to worry about what other people think!
Edited by brlraceaddict 2016-05-03 3:33 PM
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| You need to remember that just because a "heavy" person is running a horse (FYI 180 and 5'9 is not heavy in by book) does not mean that that person is not fit.
I have more appreciation for heavy jockeys that ride quiet and correct than a string bean flapping all over. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 929
| who cares what anyone except the clock thinks? I don't...and I am 5'7" and #180.
That being said, I used to be a size 22 and #237. I lost weight by getting out there and jogging until I couldn't breathe. Which, when I started was literally about 20 steps. Then I caught my breath by walking and then ran another 20 steps until I couldn't breathe again. I did this until I could run 4 miles without stopping. I have lost 70# at the moment but am slowly working towards more with small, achievable goals.
Who cares what other people think? It's not about them...it's YOUR journey and we all have our own individual setbacks. Not everyone suffers the same, but we all do. As you can see from my avatar, I am not the smallest person out there, but should I let that keep me from giving it a try? No. If we all waited intil we were the perfect (inset wish here) we would never do anything. I say go for it and forget what other people are doing.  |
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Location: Not Where I Want to Be | this thread has inspired me.
I have always dreamed of jockeying a horse in the All American.
I'm 200+ lbs and I'm going to do it.
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A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | 1DSoon - 2016-05-03 7:17 PM
this thread has inspired me.
I have always dreamed of jockeying a horse in the All American.
I'm 200+ lbs and I'm going to do it.
You CAN DO IT , |
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 Owner of a ratting catting machine
Posts: 2258
| I guess I'm the only one here thinking you shouldn't go to the barrel race. Why don't you get yourself right in the practice pen and the gym (or the side of the road, if you work out like I do? I really like running, an acquired taste on my part), before you even think about it?
My logic here is that I've gone as a less than adequate rider. A lot. And I lost. A lot. I lost my pride, I lost my money, I lost my confidence. I've had my husband drive me home and trying to tough love me out of the tears running down my face. It was hell.
So I changed it. I got in shape. I went to clinics. I completely recalibrated. I work really hard for good nutrition, strength, saddle time. When I have a bad run, I'm not wallowing in misery because I'm beating myself up for being less than physically right (this allows more room for wallowing in feeling like an idiot, or worrying that something is wrong with the horse, or realizing that I choked up on that inside rein at 3rd barrel AGAIN, which is so much more fun, ha ha)
Every time I ride, I know I deserve to ride well. I set the bar for myself, and honestly, I don't go if I'm not feeling it. I get back to work at home and try to set myself up to make great runs that I'm proud of.
If you really feel that riding at less than your desired level will kick your confidence in the teeth, and that the only thing standing between you and riding at this level is your body, then fix it before you try it!
Another option that is effective is to move to somewhere where no one knows you. I've done this too. Works charmingly. |
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 IMA No Hair Style Gal
Posts: 2594
| Please watch this video.
http://www.filmsforaction.org/watch/everybody-dies-but-not-everybod...
Don't ever sell yourself short or consider yourself inadequate to do what you love.
If you have a passion for something follow it. No exception no excuses. |
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 I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| I have never been and will never be one of those "little" girls. I feel that I HAVE to be a BETTER rider because I can't afford to be all over my horse like I see some girls. Am I judging them? What ever works, if they out run me then they deserve to place above me no matter what I think. I am sure I have been ridiculed, I just never bothered to listen. I don't give two shakes about what "people" think or say. The only people whose opinion I care about are those who I respect.
Quit listening to what other negative nellies say. Put on your big girl panties and run your horse to the best of "your" abilities. If you have weaknesses, work on improving them. And don't forget to have some fun along the way.
Am I the only one who is getting tired of the whole bullying thing? My Daddy used to say "that sticks and stones" thing. teach yourself and your children not to be victims, not to sway to peer pressure and not play follow the leader and the chance of being bullied goes way down. I was "bullied" as a child, people said mean things, did mean things but I never really cared....unless I saw them picking on someone else, THEN I would go into protective mode.
And as they say, the best revenge is living (or running) well. |
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Expert
Posts: 3782
Location: Gainesville, TX | 1DSoon - 2016-05-03 3:21 PM
oija - 2016-05-03 4:05 PM A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago.
who was it?
Courtney Duncan on Ms Perky Bug, 2013. |
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Veteran
Posts: 285
| Okay so I'm over 200lbs. But I can ride my horse. I gained weight when I went through a horrible depression thinking I wasn't good enough. I've been going to a few jps to get back in it. I'm self conscious but looking around there were bigger girls there too. I took my horse slow. I've learned I'm not a limber and as athletic but I can still ride. I haven't been hauling a lot but each time I go, I run at what I'm comfortable with. I use to run against girls who were 250+ and they'd outrun you everytime.
Go run and have fun. Don't worry about being bigger. Enjoy yourself. Every time I run, I'm so proud of my horse cause she really tries and is patient with me trying to get the swing of things again. I'm trying to loose weight, for myself and to be more athletic in the saddle. Go haul your horse and have fun. |
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Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where | oija - 2016-05-03 10:10 PM 1DSoon - 2016-05-03 3:21 PM oija - 2016-05-03 4:05 PM A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago. who was it? Courtney Duncan on Ms Perky Bug, 2013.
Edited by MS2011 2016-05-03 11:22 PM
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 Expert
Posts: 1767
Location: California | Stop worrying about what other people think. Why does that even matter? I am overweight right now and know if I was in shape I wouldn't get outrun. I have a really nice older gelding that runs .4 tenths off locally and is 1-2 out of placing almost every time. If I were in shape and lost 20# we would be placing. But I've had back surgery and other injuries and I work long hours, I don't exercise like I should or eat right and I know it. I barrel race because I love it and I enjoy running my horses. I just try and do the best we can do and set personal goals for ourselves. Like I want to remeber to rate my mare at the first barrel or I don't want to pull my gelding's head away at the second barrel. If we accomplish those I am happy, and if we place, even better. Most people at my races don't know I was a Youth World Champion pole bender or won my first barrel futurity when I was 17 and always was mounted on top notch horses and went to top trainers. Does that matter, not really. Barrel race for you and that's really the only person you should worry about or have to answer to. |
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Location: Not Where I Want to Be | MS2011 - 2016-05-04 12:20 AM oija - 2016-05-03 10:10 PM 1DSoon - 2016-05-03 3:21 PM oija - 2016-05-03 4:05 PM A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago. who was it?
Courtney Duncan on Ms Perky Bug, 2013.
you could fill all of her pockets with rocks and pour cement in her boots and she wouldn't wiegh 165lbs
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Expert
Posts: 3782
Location: Gainesville, TX | They have to add weight to the saddle blanket though if the rider doesn't meet weight. So the weight is still there, similar to handicapping in race horses. Some pictures I have seen of her make her look more substantial and some less.
http://www.onlinedigitalpubs.com/display_article.php?id=116190 |
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Veteran
Posts: 194
Location: OKLAHOMA | I have not read all the post. I think when we have seen the winning and being considered tuff, we tend to think we have to get back to that. I know that is what has happened to me. My big winning days are way long time ago. I have decided it makes no difference.
We are learning life happens, we have to deal with it. Others opionions do not make you better or worse. If you still enjoy the ride and running then i say you need to work on letting that be enough. I have 3 real nice horses that have been off for 3-5 years, because i let myself get lost in others lives. I am back to working on ME and MY HORSES.... So go enjoy and not worry about what was or has been. Be sure to have peace with you... Good luck with your journey!!! God Bless... |
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Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where | 1DSoon - 2016-05-04 6:47 AM MS2011 - 2016-05-04 12:20 AM oija - 2016-05-03 10:10 PM 1DSoon - 2016-05-03 3:21 PM oija - 2016-05-03 4:05 PM A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago. who was it?
Courtney Duncan on Ms Perky Bug, 2013.
Exactly |
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 Hugs to You
Posts: 7550
Location: In The Land of Cotton | MS2011 - 2016-05-04 9:56 AM 1DSoon - 2016-05-04 6:47 AM MS2011 - 2016-05-04 12:20 AM oija - 2016-05-03 10:10 PM 1DSoon - 2016-05-03 3:21 PM oija - 2016-05-03 4:05 PM A woman weighing over that even busted the record on a standard pattern in Brazil a couple years ago. who was it?
Courtney Duncan on Ms Perky Bug, 2013.
And having it in the saddle blankets is no way the same as carrying it on your thighs and ass. |
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 Experienced Mouse Trapper
Posts: 3106
Location: North Dakota | I should NEVER read these posts....
<------
If I waited for everyone (including myself) to "approve" how I am and if I was such a sore looser, I would NEVER show my face on a horse in public ever again.
IT'S YOUR LIFE DEAL WITH IT AS YOU WISH. If you're too afraid to go stay home, if you want to go and ride then go and deal with your emotions and other people.
END. OF. RANT.
zipping up flame suit...
Edited by LMS 2016-05-04 9:37 AM
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 Serious Snap Trapper
Posts: 4275
Location: In The Snow, AZ | I want to give another perspective...
I'm not overweight. I could probably be in better shape, core strength wise. But I'm smaller. And I can HONESTLY say, I don't even notice if someone running is heavy or not. I'm usually just in awe of all the gorgeous horses in one spot. Haha, but seriously. I think it's more in your mind than anything. I'm sure some people will judge. But for those of us that just want to have fun, we see people, not numbers on a scale.
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 Miss Laundry Misshap
Posts: 5271
| I've seen some rather large women and men win barrel races. I've also seen some 5 year olds go out and tromp everyone's butt.
Size is relative. I'm 178 as of last night at 5'6. I don't look it, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. If you're really unhappy, do something about it. If not....Who freakin cares what other people think!
I will say when I lost 50 lbs and was down to 162, I felt like I could stay with my horse a lot better. I'm working for this summer to get back down to that and hope to hit goal of 155. At 215, I was NOT helping my horse as much and I know the extra pounds slowed him down because I gained a 1/2 second after the weight loss. |
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Experienced Mouse Trapper
Posts: 3106
Location: North Dakota | Nateracer - 2016-05-04 10:20 AM I've seen some rather large women and men win barrel races. I've also seen some 5 year olds go out and tromp everyone's butt.
Size is relative. I'm 178 as of last night at 5'6. I don't look it, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. If you're really unhappy, do something about it. If not....Who freakin cares what other people think!
I will say when I lost 50 lbs and was down to 162, I felt like I could stay with my horse a lot better. I'm working for this summer to get back down to that and hope to hit goal of 155. At 215, I was NOT helping my horse as much and I know the extra pounds slowed him down because I gained a 1/2 second after the weight loss. Because I want to play devils advocate a little, I'm assuming it would take quite along time to loose 50 pounds....isn't it possible the horse matured and became better-as I assume the older they are the more training and experiences they gain?? Just so you know I am not belittling your weight loss at all..congrats...just a little different perspective....
Edited by LMS 2016-05-04 10:32 AM
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 950
Location: MO | WrapN3MN - 2016-05-03 4:13 PM You need to remember that just because a "heavy" person is running a horse (FYI 180 and 5'9 is not heavy in by book) does not mean that that person is not fit. I have more appreciation for heavy jockeys that ride quiet and correct than a string bean flapping all over.
Amen to this! |
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Miss Laundry Misshap
Posts: 5271
| LMS - 2016-05-04 10:30 AM Nateracer - 2016-05-04 10:20 AM I've seen some rather large women and men win barrel races. I've also seen some 5 year olds go out and tromp everyone's butt.
Size is relative. I'm 178 as of last night at 5'6. I don't look it, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. If you're really unhappy, do something about it. If not....Who freakin cares what other people think!
I will say when I lost 50 lbs and was down to 162, I felt like I could stay with my horse a lot better. I'm working for this summer to get back down to that and hope to hit goal of 155. At 215, I was NOT helping my horse as much and I know the extra pounds slowed him down because I gained a 1/2 second after the weight loss. Because I want to play devils advocate a little, I'm assuming it would take quite along time to loose 50 pounds....isn't it possible the horse matured and became better-as I assume the older they are the more training and experiences they gain?? Just so you know I am not belittling your weight loss at all..congrats...just a little different perspective....
I lost it over the winter. Sept to April. Said horse was 16-17. I'd had him since he was 5. It was the weight loss. |
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Mrs. Troy
Location: western Nebraska | I am not terribly overweight but I am old. I go to the barrel races and I have some super nice horses. I have at least one person tell me at every barrel race-when you decide to quit I will run your horse for you. Now that is starting to give me quite a complex. But you know what -they are my horses and I will continue to go as long as I can still drive myself there and get on. My situation isn't quite the same as some of yours but it is still a form of bullying. We need to stick together and support each other. I make it a point to say something nice to at least one person at every barrel race that I see stuggling. Who knows what they have going on in their life. Struggling with weight, family, horse problems-getting older and losing your timing. Come everyone-lets try to be nice |
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I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| doglady - 2016-05-05 8:07 PM
I am not terribly overweight but I am old. I go to the barrel races and I have some super nice horses. I have at least one person tell me at every barrel race-when you decide to quit I will run your horse for you. Now that is starting to give me quite a complex. But you know what -they are my horses and I will continue to go as long as I can still drive myself there and get on. My situation isn't quite the same as some of yours but it is still a form of bullying. We need to stick together and support each other. I make it a point to say something nice to at least one person at every barrel race that I see stuggling. Who knows what they have going on in their life. Struggling with weight, family, horse problems-getting older and losing your timing. Come everyone-lets try to be nice
Doglady, keep your chin up. I am NOT small AND I am old. People will walk up and say "You are still running? When are you going to quit?" Ummm, when I am dead? Wasn't able to go much in the last 10 years because there was always "something" wrong with my horse. Last year I went quite a bit on an old mare that was entrusted to my care.....and made our regional rodeo association finals for the first time in 9 years. Mounted on the right horse age or a few extra pounds doesn't slow all of us down.  |
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Mrs. Troy
Location: western Nebraska | rodeoveteran - 2016-05-05 8:23 PM doglady - 2016-05-05 8:07 PM I am not terribly overweight but I am old. I go to the barrel races and I have some super nice horses. I have at least one person tell me at every barrel race-when you decide to quit I will run your horse for you. Now that is starting to give me quite a complex. But you know what -they are my horses and I will continue to go as long as I can still drive myself there and get on. My situation isn't quite the same as some of yours but it is still a form of bullying. We need to stick together and support each other. I make it a point to say something nice to at least one person at every barrel race that I see stuggling. Who knows what they have going on in their life. Struggling with weight, family, horse problems-getting older and losing your timing. Come everyone-lets try to be nice Doglady, keep your chin up. I am NOT small AND I am old. People will walk up and say "You are still running? When are you going to quit?" Ummm, when I am dead? Wasn't able to go much in the last 10 years because there was always "something" wrong with my horse. Last year I went quite a bit on an old mare that was entrusted to my care.....and made our regional rodeo association finals for the first time in 9 years. Mounted on the right horse age or a few extra pounds doesn't slow all of us down.
That is what I say too. THe older you get the better horse you have to have!! |
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  Twin Sister to Queen Boobie
Posts: 13315
Location: East Tennessee but who knows?! | stayceem - 2016-05-03 2:42 PM Lookup the forum cowgirls with curves. It has so many stories of barrel racers finding success with a less than ideal figure. Remember, people judge. Its the unfortunate reality but they will judge you on your size or they will judge you on your hairstyle. You cant let judgmental people control your happiness. Go have fun, enjoy the ride!
Life is too short to not ride now! Don't wait until the time or weight is perfect. You may never get it.
I write the Cowgirls With Curves Blog/ website. It's also on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. It's to encourage riders with these same thoughts & struggles.
I'm getting ready to update the latest blog post & talk about the struggles I've gone through the last two years, and what I've learned through that. The blog has not only been for encouraging others, but I've been on a journey as well. Hoping to have it updated in the next few days.
Here's the website https://cowgirlswithcurves.com/ |
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Owner of a ratting catting machine
Posts: 2258
| I truly feel that it's less about dealing with "weight" issues, as it is "mental" issues, and "physical strength" issues.
I've been a little fat kid my whole life.
Let me tell you something, on average I weigh 155 lbs and measure 5'3". My weight doesn't fluctuate a whole lot, maybe a few pounds on and off. I did get busy lately and am 145. It's taken me five months to lose a measly 10 lbs.
When I weigh 155 lbs, and have been running everyday, and doing squats, and eating right, in my own mind, I deserve to be there and ride well. I deserve to clock. I deserve to win.
When I weigh 155 lbs, and I've been sitting on my ass, and eating burgers and fries, and hammering the coffee and soda, and then there's my Zebra Cake affliction (ooooh Zebra Cakes!!), guess what? You guessed it, I'm out of the money. Not by much, a few tenths from our usual times, but I still get clocked.
Once in my early 20s, I made it all the way (weigh?) up to 185 lbs. Holy ****!!! For little short me, it was horrible. What woke me up? A video. A video that my mom took of me getting completely outdone by the plug that I was on. What a wonderful feeling. I got busy, and lost 30 lbs, and have pretty much maintained that almost ten years now.
I have finally got a really nice horse going, so have gotten busy and lost more weight. I've lost inches. I'm smug. When I'm getting down the alley way, and when I'm watching my run videos, and when I'm riding in the warm up pen, I'm NOT thinking about my body. I'm thinking about my horse. I'm thinking about my run.
The only way to weight loss is through nutrition. The only way to strength is through exercise. The only way for mental strength is to set yourself up for success by feeling that you deserve to be there. It's absolutely not about the number on the scale. People that outweigh my 145, people that outweigh your 180, are still people that get on their horse, and can, and do, outrun you and I by more than increments.
Those people are strong, mentally and physically, and are there to do what they want to do.
If you're not in a good mental place to go to a barrel race, you're setting yourself up for defeat. No matter how old, or young, or how nice or not nice your horse is. If you're not in a good mental place, even if you win, you're still going to beat yourself with the, "It would have been even faster if I wasn't so fat."
Get your body in the best shape you can, be proud of your efforts, give yourself some true mental edge. Our animals are athletes, they and we deserve to treat ourselves as such too. Either that or learn how to do something else, like knit and watch golf on TV.
Edited by classicpotatochip 2016-05-05 10:18 PM
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 Friendly horse swapper
Posts: 4122
Location: Buffalo, TX | Barrel racing is such a mental game that those with any self doubts about anything (themselves, their horse, the ground, what others think...& on and on) are setting themselves up for defeat.
Now that the 4D format is so popular, I see different levels of commitment to the sport....at the very top, you see the pros and serious amateurs who work hard physically and mentally to be the best they can be to stay at the top....these are the ones who watch their diet, work out, keep their horses fit and tuned up...and they win at the highest levels of rodeo and jackpots.
There are those who love the sport, but more as a hobby, and their level of commitment is lower either because of other responsibilities, family, job, etc....or they only want to devote a certain amount of time to their horses and themselves because it just isn't life and death with them...so it doesn't matter that them or their horses aren't in shape, or they own the best & fastest horse out there...it's more of a social event for the fun aspect...nothing wrong with that, it's just a different mental outlook on what you want out of life and this sport in particular.
But...if you are always mad at yourself for not being as good as you want to be, then it's only you who can change that and make the sacrifices it takes to be the person you think you can be, but to really want it and make it happen, you have to get there mentally first.
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Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where | One thing that really bugs me about this thread....it's titled Barrel Racing when a bit "heavy" and people being mean. No one has even been mean or judged as of yet, you're assuming that they will. Why are you convinced that they will? Would you have judged someone previously for it? Worst case - someone does judge. How does that affect you? It seems like you're letting something really silly get in the way of what you want to do. I guess I just don't understand putting so much stock into what other's think of you.
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 Expert
Posts: 5290
| I agree its not so much pounds but strength and fitness. I am male, lost 100 pounds since last June and Have maintained that weight loss for about 4 months now. I STILL weigh 185!!!! ANd I am THIN now. Rumors started at barrel races I had some dreaded disease.. lol But even at 185 I am still heavier than a lot of overweight women. So its not just weight alone. I have a 32" waist and I am not going to lose any more. My doctor even said I just needed to hold it right here. LOl I am sure my horse has to try harder than a 110 pound woman BUT being fit really goes a long way. |
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 The Bling Princess
Posts: 3411
Location: North Dakota | I understand where you are coming from; I too used to be stick thin back in the day and now I weigh my heaviest I ever have. It does weigh (no pun intended) on my mind because I know its not healthy and at this point I know my horse is in better shape than me. I struggle to keep up with him. I'm not going to lie, I've gone to barrel races and had people make fun of me because of my weight. I've been told I'm the reason my one horse is retired--has ringbone, but somehow it was due to me being too fat. If I make a mistake on the pattern I've been told if I wasn't so fat I may be able to sit my horse better. There are some VERY cruel people in our sport and in the world for that matter, but for the most part most of the gals I race with up here don't give a crap about my weight. They still cheer for me when I enter the arena and congratulate me when I have a nice run.
I think you need to give yourself some grace here; you've had some health issues and that may make weight loss a little slow (or not). So, while your changing your body go have fun & keep things in perspective.
Your journey may not be about winning right now, it may be about doing what you need to do, at your pace, and finding peace in it. Life is so short and you may not be guaranteed tomorrow, so why let the fear of what someone MAY say to you get in your way of enjoying your horses and what you like to do? GO HAVE FUN!! Get up, tell yourself your a fierce b*tch, walk out that door and load those horses up and GO!!! Your not going to overcome this fear by sitting on the couch.
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 Reaching for the stars....
Posts: 12704
| doglady - 2016-05-05 8:30 PM rodeoveteran - 2016-05-05 8:23 PM doglady - 2016-05-05 8:07 PM I am not terribly overweight but I am old. I go to the barrel races and I have some super nice horses. I have at least one person tell me at every barrel race-when you decide to quit I will run your horse for you. Now that is starting to give me quite a complex. But you know what -they are my horses and I will continue to go as long as I can still drive myself there and get on. My situation isn't quite the same as some of yours but it is still a form of bullying. We need to stick together and support each other. I make it a point to say something nice to at least one person at every barrel race that I see stuggling. Who knows what they have going on in their life. Struggling with weight, family, horse problems-getting older and losing your timing. Come everyone-lets try to be nice Doglady, keep your chin up. I am NOT small AND I am old. People will walk up and say "You are still running? When are you going to quit?" Ummm, when I am dead? Wasn't able to go much in the last 10 years because there was always "something" wrong with my horse. Last year I went quite a bit on an old mare that was entrusted to my care.....and made our regional rodeo association finals for the first time in 9 years. Mounted on the right horse age or a few extra pounds doesn't slow all of us down.
We have a 70+ lady rider here in VA. She's had some health issues the past couple years and has had to miss a few shows. The last time I saw her I went and told her she was my hero - and that I could only hope to still be competing when that many more years pass for me. I might not be able to ride a rocket mare at that age, but dang if I won't be trying to ride a cadillac ride like Zan! I've decided that core and flexibility is key to continuing riding ability. Age and weight both take a toll, but as long as balance remains I think a person is going to be able to do just fine riding barrels. |
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Nut Case Expert
Posts: 9305
Location: Tulsa, Ok | My horse, my truck, my trailer, my tack, my feed bill all paid for by ME, -- when somebody starts picking up the tab, and mucking the barn, I will worry about their opinion. |
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A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | SC Wrangler - 2016-05-08 9:05 AM My horse, my truck, my trailer, my tack, my feed bill all paid for by ME, -- when somebody starts picking up the tab, and mucking the barn, I will worry about their opinion.
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 507
Location: Lost in the corn of Iowa. | Ok, not to sound rude or insensitive. But...who freaking cares what everyone else thinks!!! You have weight issues, who doesn't. Even the skinny girls think they are fat, I wanna smack those people btw. Lol! I've been donating for almost 2 years even though I did my homework at home with my horse. And I've finally just proved to be consistent in the 4D. Yes, 4D and you know what, I don't care what others think. I have weight issues myself, heck I'm 5'7" and am anywhere between 175 lbs and 225lbs. Is it crazy, depressing, frustrating absolutely!!! No one knows why I'm that way but me, it's because I have hashimoto thyroiditis, or in short a defective thyroid that throws tantrums and so my weight is the red headed step child that catches the back side of the tantrums. Focus on you, focus on the positive. At the end of the day you've paid your entry fees and for that little bit of time your in the arena it's yours because you've paid to be there. Even if it's a bad run, find something positive in every run. And honestly if you think everyone should there is judging you, trust me they aren't. And the ones that are, they are just jealous or they have internal demons that they are fighting themselves and have no other way to cope than by being ugly to others. Keep your chin up, and focus on the positive. |
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Regular
Posts: 66
| I'm 5'9 and I've been fluctuating between 180-190 pounds quite often. When I was an assistant horse trainer last year, I was finally back to my early college weight from being active ( I didn't even work out on the side), although now that I'm working full time again in an office some of the weight has come back and I'm having to do more to maintain/lose it plus put in time to spend hours in the saddle training my own horses. It's hard going to barrel races and seeing girls built like Lindsay Sears run against me because I know I will never be that size, my bone structure alone won't allow it! I've come to the realization that it is okay. I've ridden small catty horses and I've let them help me gain muscles and athleticism to balance on them. I've also found that workouts like power yoga and pilates really help your balance and its fun to see the muscles you build during those workouts help you ride better. In my opinion as long as I'm trying to help stay active and in shape that alone will help me do my part in riding my horse. Yes I would love to lose more weight especially when you see those bad photographs at races, haha but I'm not going to let it stop me from competing!
When I go to barrel races, I don't like spending time socializing with other riders. I tend to keep to myself and my horse and that helps me focus a lot. It messes with my head if I get a bunch of different advice from friends or hear people gossiping and bad mouthing other riders which causes me to doubt myself and my ability to perform. I find it best to stick to yourself and focus on your horse and pick a goal you want to accomplish during that run. I found this out recently when I moved to a different state without having any friends at the barrel races. If you are at a race with friends, try to find a place away from the commotion and just stop breathe and be thankful that you have an opportunity to compete. Honestly in the end, no one is going to remember your run, your weight and your outfit. They are also focusing on themselves/horses and their runs too. If they are gossiping and bad mouthing, maybe it's time to find some new friends or people to hang out with.
Edited by christylynn89 2016-05-09 4:17 PM
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 Veteran
Posts: 246
Location: Idaho | So what? What will happen to you if people "think" things abut you? They are going to do it whether you are 180 or 95, whether you hit all 3 barrels or win the race by 3 tenths, whether your tack is old or you have new, in style everything, whether you show up in an old two horse or a living quarters bloomer. Do you see? If it's not your weight it's something else....ALWAYS! These people aren't your friends. And their opinion shouldn't be valued as such. Find a small supportive group who wants to help you and gets just as excited when you do well as themselves. Focus on you and your horses. You know your journey, how you got there and where you want to go. No one else knows that, and don't need to know that. And another big point, I have found. No body really cares! Seriously, I've had friends who get so worried about what other people MIGHT think. But truth is, no body truly cares. Sure they might see something and say something, but it's here and gone. |
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 Lady Di
Posts: 21556
Location: Oklahoma | doglady - 2016-05-05 8:30 PM
rodeoveteran - 2016-05-05 8:23 PM doglady - 2016-05-05 8:07 PM I am not terribly overweight but I am old. I go to the barrel races and I have some super nice horses. I have at least one person tell me at every barrel race-when you decide to quit I will run your horse for you. Now that is starting to give me quite a complex. But you know what -they are my horses and I will continue to go as long as I can still drive myself there and get on. My situation isn't quite the same as some of yours but it is still a form of bullying. We need to stick together and support each other. I make it a point to say something nice to at least one person at every barrel race that I see stuggling. Who knows what they have going on in their life. Struggling with weight, family, horse problems-getting older and losing your timing. Come everyone-lets try to be nice Doglady, keep your chin up. I am NOT small AND I am old. People will walk up and say "You are still running? When are you going to quit?" Ummm, when I am dead? Wasn't able to go much in the last 10 years because there was always "something" wrong with my horse. Last year I went quite a bit on an old mare that was entrusted to my care.....and made our regional rodeo association finals for the first time in 9 years. Mounted on the right horse age or a few extra pounds doesn't slow all of us down.
Amen to this. I ride with a magic seat now....I don't really think I need it now (started it using it when I started back after a break and was really weak) but it's a confidence thing with me. I know if my horse stumbles or darts, it will give me a momentary "stick" to get my seat back, and man, do I get the remarks about THAT! I've gotten where I don't pay any attention, though....I know I'm not as competitive as I used to be and I'm a whole lot heavier, but I still love to do it, and I'm stubborn enough to not let anyone tell me I can't. Barrel racers can be the most vicious animals on the planet, but some of them can be the nicest, life long friends you'll ever meet....you just have to weed through them to find those!!! It just takes a thick skin. |
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 Expert
Posts: 1482
Location: on my horse | I'm not sure what illness you had, but I can relate to you on that level. I have a fairly severe autoimmune disease and until last fall I hadn't been to a race in over a year. From being basically bedridden for several months on top of many steroid medications I gain A TON of weight. Last year I beat myself up over how painfully slow the weight was coming off and how I didn't deserve to be at the race and I was hindering my horse and everyone was judging me and my poor mare for trying to carry my fat *ss for a run etc. etc. etc...
This spring I decided that while I continue to attempt to make progress on the weight and health front, I'm not going to punish myself for something that was totally out of my hands. I go to barrel races, do some time only runs or enter the novice. We aren't fast but it is fun and at the end of the day I'm more motivated to continue my healthy choices and medications to get my life and body back on track because I'm treating myself kindly and letting my mare and I have some fun. I'm not hindering her, she's not seasoned so I'm not slowing her down, I ride well, and I love to go so I do. I take a motivational friend as well if I need an extra boost. |
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Veteran
Posts: 183
Location: Wyoming | Dog lady they only say that because they are tired of how awesome you and your horses are. Your a tough competitor don't let them cause you to doubt your ability! They don't want to have to run against you. |
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Barrel Racing when a bit "heavy" and people being mean...