HEALTH, HORSES & HONEST CONVERSATIONS
Chatting with Amanda Ross
To celebrate International Health Day, we sat down with Australian Equestrian Olympian, Amanda Ross for an honest conversation about health, horses, and finding balance at every stage. Take a read on our chat about fitness, mindset, and what it really means to feel good, in and out of the saddle.
HOW ARE YOU FEELING RIGHT NOW, AND WHAT DOES FEELING GOOD IN YOUR BODY MEAN TO YOU?
I feel very balanced. I mean I’ve just got back on horses again. Now at 56, with a hip replacement and a few injuries behind me, I’ve realised just how much staying active has been my happy place. It’s where everything feels right for me, as limited as it is at times. But it’s the joy of being able to change, move and maintain that sense of purpose, and I think that’s what makes me feel good in my body.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE WHEN YOU’RE TRAINING AND COMPETING?
After around 8am starts, I’m anywhere between 8–20 horses a day. I’m riding young horses, school horses, and a mix of training. I also coach, which keeps me learning and evolving too. I also do my own workouts — I always allow time to focus on my own fitness, whether that’s strength, conditioning or mobility. It’s a busy schedule, but I thrive on routine and structure.
"IT’S THE JOY OF BEING ABLE TO CHANGE, MOVE AND MAINTAIN THAT SENSE OF PURPOSE, AND I THINK THAT’S WHAT MAKES ME FEEL GOOD IN MY BODY."
HOW DID YOU MANAGE YOUR MINDSET THROUGH THE PRESSURE OF COMPETING AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL?
Through honesty. A strong focus on what I can control, and not getting caught up in external noise. Competing at that level teaches you resilience, but also how to trust your preparation. There’s a lot of pressure, but I’ve always believed in staying grounded and doing the work. That’s where confidence comes from.
WHAT’S YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD LIKE?
I think it’s changed over time. Where once I was probably more focused on restriction, now it’s about fuelling properly and enjoying food. There’s definitely more balance now. I know my body, I have some boundaries, but I don’t overcomplicate it. Food is there to support me — not stress me out.
ARE YOU GOOD AT RESTING?
Honestly, not always. I’ve always been someone who likes to be doing something. But I’ve learnt the importance of recovery, especially with age and injuries. Listening to your body is everything. Rest is just as important as the work.
HOW DOES YOUR WELLBEING AFFECT YOUR HORSES?
Completely. They pick up on everything. If I’m stressed or distracted, they feel it. So much of what we do is about connection and communication. If I’m calm and centred, they respond better. It’s about being present with them.
WHAT ARE YOUR NON-NEGOTIABLES FOR A HAPPY, HEALTHY HORSE?
The basics matter most — consistency, routine, proper nutrition, and good horsemanship. Horses thrive on care and attention. It’s about creating an environment where they feel safe and supported. You can’t cut corners with that.
FOR THE WOMEN DOING IT ALL – HORSES, WORK, KIDS, LIFE – WHAT’S THE ONE THING TO STOP SKIPPING?
Looking after yourself. It’s easy to put everything else first, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. Even if it’s something small each day — movement, time out, proper meals — it all adds up. You have to prioritise your own wellbeing.
WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU KNEW TEN YEARS AGO?
To trust the process more. Not everything needs to happen so quickly. I’ve learnt that consistency over time is what really creates results. I would’ve told myself to be patient and enjoy the journey more.
WHAT DOES ENJOYING THE RIDE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU RIGHT NOW?
Training and competing at a level I love, but honestly, it’s the connection with my horses and the people around me that matters. It’s not just about results, it’s the moments, the relationships, and the joy I get from it every day.
Photography courtesy of:
@the_sister_consulting