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The detailed client story below was written by me using Gemma’s own Q&A responses and is shared with her full permission.
The reviews submitted below —and those shown on the Testimonials page—are written in the clients’ own words.
Client feedback is an important part of coaching and training. It helps me understand what has been valuable and continue adapting the support I provide.
If we have worked together and you would like to share your experience, please use the form below. Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback.
To read more feedback from previous clients, please visit the Testimonials page.
Gemma’s Story
Written by Sharon, using Gemma’s own Q&A responses and published with her permission
From Avoiding Competition to Clearing 1.20m: Gemma and Bart’s Story
When Gemma first came to me, she described herself as a rider who would often enter competitions and “wing it and see what happened.”
She rarely walked a showjumping course. Instead, she would watch a few other riders go around so she knew where she was going, avoiding the additional worry that could come from examining the fences while walking the course on foot.
She also avoided schooling unless she had a dressage test to practise and found it difficult to maintain her confidence.
In dressage, seeing other competitors producing good tests could leave her wondering, “What’s the point?” and affect her motivation before she had even entered the arena.
Although Gemma still rode, competed and enjoyed eventing, much of her attention was focused on getting through the experience rather than riding with a clear plan.
When she did walk a cross-country course, she had support from an experienced friend who helped her understand where she needed to be, where to look and how to approach the fences. Even with that help, Gemma’s attention would be drawn towards the jumps that frightened her most.
“I would be thinking about which jumps scared me the most and about the feeling of getting over the last jump, knowing it was all over and I could relax.”
During a dressage test, she would remain focused on whether the previous movement had been good or bad instead of preparing for the next one.
Eventually, competing took a back seat. Gemma and Bart hacked, visited arena hires with friends and enjoyed trips to the beach. Although these experiences were fun, Gemma now recognises that they also gave her a way to avoid confronting her competition nerves.
When she considered returning to eventing, those nerves felt stronger than ever and she dropped down a class.
Building the rider as well as the confidence
Our work together initially began when Gemma still owned her young horse, Compo. A very difficult period with him had badly affected her confidence, and she reached the point where she said she had no interest in ever getting back on him.
A few months later, she was riding him again.
Compo has since been sold and Gemma now has Bart, but that experience remains an important part of her story. It showed her that something which had once felt impossible could change.
We then began working more closely with Gemma and Bart. Gemma originally said that they needed help with their dressage, but it soon became clear that improving their results would require us to look at more than the movements within a test.
Our coaching has combined technical riding, horse training, rider mindset and biomechanics. We break things down, explore why something is—or is not—working and use small adjustments to help Gemma become more effective and independent in her riding.
“The way we break things down and build on them has made a big difference. Sharon explains why something is happening or why it isn’t going quite right, and how minor adjustments can change it. I feel like I know what I am doing.”
That last sentence matters.
Good coaching should not leave a rider permanently dependent upon somebody telling them what to do. It should help them develop the understanding and practical tools to recognise what is happening and make better decisions for themselves.
From looking backwards to riding what comes next
As Gemma’s understanding developed, her dressage scores began improving.
Instead of completing one movement and continuing to judge it while riding the next, she learned to bring her attention back to what was happening in that moment. The previous movement could no longer be changed—but the preparation for the next one could.
The same principle transformed the way she approached jumping.
Rather than fixating on how large or frightening a particular fence appeared, Gemma began thinking about what she needed to do: where her turn was, the line she needed, how she should ride the fence and where she was going afterwards.
Oxers had previously caused particular anxiety.
“I still have a small wobble every now and again, but now I think more about how I need to ride it. Where is my turn? What line do I need? Where is my next jump? I’m too busy looking at the bigger picture. I think I would happily jump a course full of them now!”
Confidence does not mean that a rider never experiences another wobble. It means the wobble no longer has to dictate what happens next.
When competing became enjoyable again
One of Gemma’s biggest turning points came when she realised she was no longer entering the ring simply wanting the experience to be over.
“I remember doing my showjumping and thinking, ‘This is great!’ rather than, ‘Let’s just get this done.’ Going around the cross-country, I wasn’t thinking about where the jump I was most worried about was. I was concentrating on what we were doing now and how I needed to ride.”
At the beginning of the season, Gemma did not believe she would be eventing at 80cm again until much later in the year—if at all.
Instead, she completed multiple events at that level before the season had reached its halfway point.
She and Bart also produced considerably improved dressage scores, challenging Gemma’s previous belief that dressage simply was not their thing.
From fear to 1.20m
The most eye-catching result of Gemma and Bart’s transformation came when they won a puissance after clearing 1.20m.
If I had told Gemma when we first met that she would one day achieve that, she knows exactly how she would have responded:
“Honestly, I would have laughed in your face! I would have thought you had lost the plot or confused me with someone else.”
The height is impressive, but it tells only part of the story.
The greater transformation is in the rider approaching the fence: no longer consumed by its size or waiting for the round to be over, but able to remain present, ride with purpose and use the skills she had developed.
More than one result
Gemma is understandably proud of clearing 1.20m, but she is also proud of returning to eventing, improving her dressage scores and having found the confidence to ride Compo again during the time she owned him.
Her next goals include producing consistent showjumping clears with competitive times, working towards a one-metre course and finally mastering those straight-line downward transitions from canter to trot.
Some goals remain works in progress!
Looking back at the rider she was two years ago, Gemma believes she would be amazed by what she and Bart have achieved—and hopeful that things really can become better.
Her advice to another rider feeling as she once did is simple:
“I would tell them that I was where they are and that they can do it. If someone is nervous in the warm-up and we get chatting, I remind them that we are doing it because we enjoy it and it is meant to be fun—and, of course, speak to Sharon!”
Riding does not happen in isolation
Gemma’s story demonstrates why I look at the whole rider rather than treating technical riding, confidence, mindset and biomechanics as separate subjects.
What happens in our minds affects what we can access in the saddle. Equally, the understanding and skills developed through riding can influence how we approach challenges elsewhere in life.
Gemma now uses the mindset methods we have worked on when travelling to unfamiliar places, meeting new people and handling situations within her expanding job role.
Her complete mindset story—including how the work has transferred beyond riding—is available through The Mindset & Behaviour Practice:
Read Gemma’s full mindset story:
https://www.mindsetandbehaviour.co.uk/client-stories/gemma
Could something be holding back your riding?
Whether you are struggling with confidence, returning after a difficult experience, working towards a competition goal or simply feeling that you and your horse are not progressing as you could, we can look at the whole picture together.
Coaching is available in person near Leyburn and across the surrounding areas, with remote mindset, video analysis and live coaching options also available.
Please message me for an informal conversation about what you and your horse may need.
I had a training session with Sharon, based on really positive feedback from my friend. I had no real expectations, because I appreciate it can take time to build a relationship with a new coach, but wow. I've got a very sensitive horse, who gets hot and aggravated quite easily, especially after canter, and in ONE session, she fixed all of our issues- which sounds ridiculous. However, she immediately identified that the way I was breathing, was blocking my lower body, putting my leg out of place, throwing my balance off, which my horse was bracing against, and preventing him from really working from behind, and over the back. We looked good, to the untrained eye, but we weren't connected. It just goes to show that when you've put in the work, a few tweaks, can be an absolute game changer, and in this case, it really has been. My position is back to where it should be, I've got a happy and relaxed horse, that's working correctly, and we went clear and placed in our 2nd SJ comp, where weeks prior, we were eliminated for multiple stops. We didn't even address jumping, in our session. That's how much the changes to our flatwork, impacted everything else. I called her a witch (complimentary) at the end of our session- enough said 🤣. This is definitely the start of a long term training relationship, and I'm so looking forward to what we'll achieve together
~ Kate
I had a training session with Sharon, based on really positive feedback from my friend. I had no real expectations, because I appreciate it can take time to build a relationship with a new coach, but wow. I've got a very sensitive horse, who gets hot and aggravated quite easily, especially after canter, and in ONE session, she fixed all of our issues- which sounds ridiculous. However, she immediately identified that the way I was breathing, was blocking my lower body, putting my leg out of place, throwing my balance off, which my horse was bracing against, and preventing him from really working from behind, and over the back. We looked good, to the untrained eye, but we weren't connected. It just goes to show that when you've put in the work, a few tweaks, can be an absolute game changer, and in this case, it really has been. My position is back to where it should be, I've got a happy and relaxed horse, that's working correctly, and we went clear and placed in our 2nd SJ comp, where weeks prior, we were eliminated for multiple stops. We didn't even address jumping, in our session. That's how much the changes to our flatwork, impacted everything else. I called her a witch (complimentary) at the end of our session- enough said 🤣. This is definitely the start of a long term training relationship, and I'm so looking forward to what we'll achieve together
~ Kate
I had been competing at Advanced Medium for a fair while but had hit a plateau — then I started working with Sharon. Her knowledge and eye for detail helped me make the small adjustments that have made a huge difference and now me and Harley are competing at Advanced and working towards PSG!
I train with Sharon both freelance and remotely — she comes to me or we work online, and her coaching is just as effective either way. Since working with her, my tests are more fluent, my marks have gone up and I feel more confident about the future potential. I can’t recommend Sharon highly enough for anyone serious about progressing at higher levels, she really knows how to make it happen!
I had been competing at Advanced Medium for a fair while but had hit a plateau — then I started working with Sharon. Her knowledge and eye for detail helped me make the small adjustments that have made a huge difference and now me and Harley are competing at Advanced and working towards PSG!
I train with Sharon both freelance and remotely — she comes to me or we work online, and her coaching is just as effective either way. Since working with her, my tests are more fluent, my marks have gone up and I feel more confident about the future potential. I can’t recommend Sharon highly enough for anyone serious about progressing at higher levels, she really knows how to make it happen!
Training with Sharon has had a huge impact on my competition results. Before working with Sharon, I struggled with consistency and felt unsure going into the ring. But with her support and guidance, everything started to change.
Sharon’s coaching style is clear, supportive, and incredibly effective. She helped me sharpen my riding skills, improve my preparation, and bring out the best in both me and my horse. Her attention to detail and understanding of what it takes to succeed in competition made all the difference.
Since working with Sharon, I’ve gained confidence in my ability and started seeing real results. I feel more prepared going into shows, and I’ve achieved placings that I never thought were possible.
If you're looking to improve your performance and get results in the ring, I highly recommend Sharon. Her knowledge, encouragement, and practical approach to coaching are second to none.
I've had the pleasure of working with Sharon Johnson , and I can honestly say it's been a transformative experience—both in and out of the saddle. Sharon brings a unique blend of deep equestrian knowledge, fitness expertise, and powerful coaching that goes beyond just riding skills.
Her rider biomechanics course helped me finally understand how my posture and strength affect my horse's performance. The sessions were engaging, progressive, and full of "aha!" moments. Sharon explains things clearly, with patience and enthusiasm, making even complex topics feel accessible.
What really sets Sharon apart is her holistic approach. Whether it's building riding confidence, managing stress and mindset, or improving physical fitness for riders, she tailors everything to your goals. She's supportive, approachable, and genuinely committed to helping you grow as a rider and a person.
If you're looking to level up your riding, boost your confidence, or find better balance in your equestrian life, I highly recommend Sharon. You won't find a more dedicated or inspiring coach!
I came to Sharon looking for help with both my riding technique and my mindset. I was struggling with confidence in training, and it completely unraveled when it came to competitions. I’d lose focus, second-guess myself, and it felt like all my hard work just fell apart under pressure.
Sharon’s coaching was the turning point for me. Her approach blends practical riding guidance with powerful mindset work – a combination I hadn’t found anywhere else. She helped me fine-tune my position, improve my communication with my horse, and most importantly, believe in myself again.
Through her support, I’ve gone from just hoping to ‘get through’ a competition to actually riding with purpose and focus. I’ve had my best results yet this season and finally feel like I’m riding to my true potential.
Sharon doesn’t just coach you – she empowers you. If you want to improve both in and out of the saddle, she’s the real deal
Before working with Sharon, I was constantly battling nerves every time I rode. My confidence had hit rock bottom, and I was questioning whether I should even keep going with horses at all. But from our very first session, Sharon made me feel heard, supported, and understood.
Her calm, practical approach to mindset helped me recognise the patterns that were holding me back. With her guidance, I’ve learned how to manage my fear, refocus my thoughts, and build habits that support my riding goals.
I now ride with a sense of calm and clarity I never thought possible. I’ve even started enjoying my lessons again – something I haven’t done in years!
If you're a nervous rider, I can't recommend Sharon's mindset coaching enough. It's truly changed not just how I ride, but how I see myself.
Sharon has been teaching me and my young mare for several months now when I found myself struggling with self confidence. My mare had reared over on me when I first bought her and this had manifested itself into quite a battle with my confidence! Sharon is an excellent teacher who can evaluate a situation and know exactly what action to take to help horse and rider, taking things back to basics if necessary. Sharon is very patient, and has a knack of driving you on without you even realising! Sharon doesn't clock watch, goes above and beyond to ensure you get the best out of your lesson even if this goes over your allotted time - all she wants is for you to finish positively. Because of her dedication and determination to help me and Lola establish a positive partnership, we were able to go to our first SJ competition today and we both performed brilliantly and confidently. I cannot thank her enough for how much she has and will continue to develop us. Thank you Sharon x
Sharon is a brilliant coach, so experienced and her attention to detail and the way she notice’s everything has helped me sooo much. I am now out enjoying BD with my hot headed stressy mare which is something I never thought I’d say but thanks to Sharon’s help and support we are loving it! Not just the support during a lesson either but knowing she’s at the end of a text anytime and always so keen to know my score see my sheet and watch my test means so much
I started training with Sharon last August I had bought a youngster and wanted a trainer that was patient and really liked to start with the basics. We have come a long way in a short time. Sharon explains things very simply and doesn’t overload you. She’s always at the end of the phone when I need advice..I would highly recommend her teaching methods and she is extremely knowledgeable.
Had my first lesson with Sharon this week. I enjoyed her straight to the point approach and look forward to seeing how we can progress with her help
Sharon is a fantastic instructor, understanding both horse and rider and how to get them working in sync with each other. I have had lessons both with my mare who is at elementary affiliated level and my youngster who struggles to do a circle, both of which have come on leaps and bounds, Sharon is great at identifying where we may need to go back to basics so we can then get that little bit further whether it's keeping my naughty left hand still or having them more between my legs. I can't recommend her enough!
Having bitten off more than I could chew with an ex-racer, Sharon came to my rescue about 12 months ago. We are now making so much progress. I would never have managed it alone. Not a minute of lesson time is wasted - we are both physically and mentally shattered by the end! Her advice, hints and tips are invaluable. Thank you Sharon!
Sharon has been so great giving me confidence with my ex racer. I was never a jumper before and she took me right back to basics and help us build together.
Always reliable and a fantastic coach
I started having lessons with Sharon about 6 weeks ago now, I had got stuck as how to unlock my horses ability to improve her dressage. Sharon took us back to basics, and made everything very clear for my horse to understand, and when she became stuck/confused approaching it a different way so she could manage how to do it, allowing her time to build muscle strength before we move onto the next stages. The transformation in her is quite amazing, going from a giraffe like thoroughbred into a dressage diva!!
Sharon’s way of teaching is calm and put across in a way that is easy to understand.
Sharon is undoubtedly the best instructor I have had. She focuses completely on you and getting the best out of you and your horse. I love her training methods - after every lesson I come away feeling confident and with something to focus on. I can’t recommend her enough.
I’ve been having lessons with Sharon for several years now, and she is without a doubt the best instructor I’ve had! The change in both me and my horse has been amazing, and she has been so supportive and encouraging throughout our journey.
When Sharon told me she was moving away, I was gutted and hated the thought of having to find a new instructor, but then the idea of virtual lessons came up. During the last 12 months we’ve all become accustomed to the likes of Zoom and Facetime, but a horseriding lesson over a video call? Certainly not something I’d have thought of before, but if it meant I could continue lessons with Sharon I was more than willing to try it!
Despite a few technical difficulties at the beginning, the lessons have gone surprisingly well, so much so that some of our best ever sessions have been over Facetime! I don’t know if its because Murphy doesn’t have the distraction of someone on the ground, but it’s amazing how much we’ve come on over the past couple of months. It’s so easy to do too - I put my phone at C, pop in my wireless headphones and away we go!
I highly recommend Sharon to anyone looking for a new instructor, and to anyone who is missing her since she’s moved - please give the virtual lessons a try, I promise you won’t regret it!
Thank you!
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