In Western reining, a rider and horse perform intricate routines requiring seamless coordination, clear communication and precision. At first glance, this might seem worlds apart from running a company, but when you look deeper, the similarities become clear. New to the sport? Watch this video to see what we are talking about. For CEOs and business leaders, understanding the principles behind a successful reining performance can offer valuable insights into leadership.
1. Leading Through Influence, But With Discipline
During a reining performance, riders guide their horses with barely noticeable cues – a soft cluck, a ‘putting on’ of the calf or soft touch of the reign to the neck. Different to many other equestrian performance disciplines, the rider uses very little guidance via the bit and rides with one hand and (very) loose reigns. The horse responds confidently, executing spins, sliding stops, etc. with a fluidity that often belies these rather short, very muscular horses’ physiques.
This type of leadership isn’t about overpowering; it’s about leading through influence, guidance, not force. Yet, the best rider and horse teams make it look deceivingly easy and belies the hours, months and years of discipline, partnership and patience it takes to execute a winning performance. CEOs who excel often lead with a similar approach.
They don’t confuse their teams with conflicting directives; instead, they inspire and empower through simple, consistent and clear strategic guidance. Building disciplined teams through consistent performance management and guidelines builds trust and allows them to operate at their best, knowing they’re backed by a leader who provides direction without stifling their autonomy.
2. Inclusivity and equality
When it comes to the American Quarter horse, the breed most often used for this sport, ‘we do not discriminate against size, we do not call them ponies, they are all horses’, paraphrasing Greg Garland, President of the NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) in South Africa. In fact, the sport does not discriminate against breed either and any horse is able to compete in this discipline.
On top of this, Western reining (and indeed most equestrian sport) is the only sport where male and female riders (and horses!) are competing as equals against each other. It is a sport for all ages and there are ‘short stirrup’ competitions for the little ones (10 and under) and older riders with arthritis are able to ride with special hand ‘connectors’ to the reins.
The sport connects people internationally through the NRHA and young South African riders recently competed in Italy and Brazil and, fingers crossed, we will have a representative at the huge Futurity show in Oklahoma City in the US! The welfare of the horse is of the utmost importance to the NRHA and stringent rules apply with regards to checking for lameness, using appropriate bits and riding equipment.
3. Adaptability: The Real Test of Skill
Horses are sensitive, highly reactive animals and can experience high anxiety or irritability, especially with noisy crowds, flapping flags and banners or unexpected new smells or noises, especially in a new arena when competing. Skilled riders adapt instantly, correcting the horse in a calm and confident manner, even under enduring circumstances when the life of the rider and at times the horse, might be in danger.
This adaptability and courage is also a hallmark of great CEOs. The business landscape is anything but predictable—markets shift, competitors pivot, crises erupt. CEOs who can steer their organizations through these challenges with agility and composure, foster trust in their teams.
Being adaptable means staying calm under pressure, assessing the situation rapidly, and making decisions that keep the company on track. In the same way, a firm and steady hand is needed when training or controlling a skittish horse.
4. Trust: The Foundation of Success
The relationship between a rider and their horse is built on trust, developed through consistent, patient training and mutual respect. Without trust, even the best rider struggles to guide a hesitant or unresponsive horse. In business, trust is the backbone of effective leadership. CEOs must build trust not only within their executive teams but throughout their organizations and stakeholders.
This involves transparency, accountability, and the ability to listen as much as direct. A team that trusts its leader is more motivated, cohesive, and willing to go the extra mile. In the horse world, you often hear: “s/he knows when you know and s/he knows when you don’t”.
5. Continuous Improvement: Beyond the Performance
Behind every polished reining performance are hours of practice, reflection, and fine-tuning. Riders and their trainers assess what worked, what didn’t and how they can improve. For CEOs, this translates to a commitment to continuous learning.
The most effective leaders seek feedback, stay updated on industry trends, and refine their leadership approach accordingly. They understand that being at the top doesn’t mean they stop growing—it means they invest in their own development and stay open to learning new skills, which directly influences their company’s success.
In essence, reining is more than just a sport; it’s a study in leadership that underscores key qualities every leader should embody. These are the principles that turn good leaders into great ones and ensure that businesses stay agile, resilient, and ready for whatever comes next.