#166 My horse kicks out during lead changes—what am I doing wrong?

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Hot take: It’s not them. It’s you.

If you’ve ever asked your horse for a lead change and got a tail swish, ear pin, or full-on kick in response… this episode is for you.

I’ve heard from so many riders who say things like:

“She knows how to do the change… but lately, she kicks out like she’s mad at me.”

Yep. From ranch riders to reiners. From cowhorse to barrel racers. And beyond! The dreaded lead change. And I get it—because I’ve been in that saddle too. But here’s the truth no one’s telling you: Most of the time, it’s not about training mechanics. It’s about what you’re carrying into that moment with your horse.

In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the real reason lead changes go sideways—and how to fix it without drilling, over-cueing, or blaming your horse. This one might ruffle a few feathers, but it’ll also set a lot of riders free.

If you or someone you know has benefited from this episode, be sure to tag me @nicoleburnettmentalcoach, @resilientreiner, and share this episode with your riding crew! I love hearing your stories and what landed for you most. 💬

And if you’ve got a second, leaving a review on iTunes helps more riders find this work—and show up with confidence when it counts most.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

The surprising reason your horse might kick out during a lead change (and nope, it’s not because she’s being moody)
What “rider energy” really means—and why your horse feels it before you say a word
How to take the stress out of flying lead changes.
Why desperation ruins good cues
The body tension mistake 90% of riders don’t even realize they’re making
Three simple mindset shifts that lead to smoother, drama-free changes
Lead changes made easy

QUESTIONS I ANSWER:

Why is your horse suddenly resistant to lead changes when she knows how to do them?
Why won’t my horse do a flying lead change? Is it me?
Could your mindset actually be affecting your horse’s behavior?
How do you reset the pressure you carry into show-pen moments?
What should you do differently if you feel nervous or over-focused before a maneuver?
What’s the difference between leading and begging in the saddle?

LINKS / RESOURCES:

🎯 5 Days to Confident Competitor. Stop ‘show nerves’ and saddle up with swagger! https://nicoleburnettcoaching.thrivecart.com/5-days-to-confident-competitor/
🎯 Resilient Reiner Academy → The confidence to win so you ride like you belong. Sign up here! https://www.nicoleburnettcoaching.com/resilientreineracademy
🎯 Get Free Weekly Mental Coaching Tips → Join my email list! Subscribe here