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The start of a new year always brings a renewed sense of motivation and purpose. It’s a time to reflect, reset, and approach the coming season with clarity and intention before diving back into the daily routine. We hear from Alex Bragg on what his New Year goals are for 2026.
As a 5* event rider and proud WeatherBeeta sponsored rider, the start of a new year always feels like a clean slate. It’s the perfect moment to reset, refocus, and lay the groundwork for the season ahead. After a busy Christmas period filled with family time (and more food than I’d like to admit!), January becomes all about rebuilding strength, sharpening skills, and setting myself and the horses up for success.
Post-Christmas Fitness:
Getting myself back in gear once the decorations come down, my own fitness becomes a real priority. Eventing demands balance, stability and stamina from the rider – and the stronger I am, the better I can support my horses.
I start by easing back into a routine with cycling and core-focused exercises. Cycling is brilliant for cardiovascular fitness without putting too much strain on the joints, and core work helps with stability in the saddle. After indulging over Christmas, it’s also a great way to feel sharp again!
The goal isn’t to become a gym hero – it’s simply to make sure I’m fit enough to give my horses the best ride possible as their training intensifies.
Gymnastic exercises for the Horses:
As the focus begins to shift towards the competition season, this time of year, gymnastic jumping exercises form a huge part of our routine.
These exercises help develop strength, improve their proprioception and build their confidence, all while allowing me to work on timing and connection. Lines of bounces, grids, and small combinations encourage them to think for themselves, stay sharp, and use their bodies correctly.
It’s not about height; it’s about technique, balance and rhythm. These sessions lay the foundations for the bigger, more technical work that will come later in the season.
Balancing Family Life With Time in the Saddle:
January is also when I re-establish routines at home. With horses to ride, goals to work towards and a family that means everything to me, balance is key.
The quieter winter months give me a chance to reset schedules, prioritise what matters, and carve out quality time both in the saddle and at home. It’s never perfect and some days feel like a juggling act, but having clear goals helps keep everything moving in the right direction.
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