Horse Girl Chat: Fighting Obesity, Grief, and Life’s Challenges with Michelle Serna (@brokeasshorsegirl)
Pursuit of Wellness
Deep Dive
Why did Michelle Serna, aka 'Broke Ass Horse Girl,' decide to move from San Francisco to Decatur, Texas?
Michelle moved to Decatur, Texas, after living and working in the tech industry in San Francisco because she felt she needed to try something different and realized she enjoyed a life with animals away from the city. This move helped her gain a better grip on reality and break away from the competitive nature of rodeo and city life.
Why does Michelle believe that people should start with English riding lessons even if they want to do Western riding?
Michelle believes that starting with English riding lessons is beneficial because it provides a solid foundation in horse riding. It’s a low-pressure environment where beginners can learn the basics without being overwhelmed by the Western riding community’s competitiveness or rigidity.
What are some common mistakes beginners make when getting into horse riding?
Beginners often focus too much on aesthetics, like the color of the horse, and underestimate the importance of choosing an older, more experienced horse. They might also over-rely on others for basic horse care and training, which can hinder their independence and confidence.
Why does Michelle think the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is a must-see event even for non-rodeo fans?
Michelle thinks the NFR is a must-see event because of its unique blend of entertainment, ranging from free country concerts to the spectacle of the rodeo itself. It’s a massive event in Las Vegas, attracting 200,000 people and offering a lot of fun and cultural experiences, not just for rodeo enthusiasts but for anyone looking for a unique event.
Why does Michelle Serna believe that body positivity and fighting obesity are not mutually exclusive?
Michelle believes that body positivity and fighting obesity are not mutually exclusive because she appreciates herself regardless of her weight, but also wants to live a long and healthy life. She emphasizes that making lifestyle changes for health and longevity is important, and that it’s possible to love yourself while still striving for a healthier body.
Why does Michelle think it’s important to be conscious of who you let into your circle in the equestrian community?
Michelle thinks it’s important to be conscious of who you let into your circle because the horse world can be filled with negative and judgmental people. By being selective and surrounding yourself with supportive and kind individuals, you can have a more positive and enjoyable experience.
Why does Michelle think it's crucial to treat a bad fall and get back on a horse?
Michelle thinks it’s crucial to treat a bad fall and get back on a horse because horse riding can be intimidating, and the only way to overcome fear is through continued exposure and practice. She advises doing it more and facing the fear head-on to build confidence.
Why does Michelle Serna think there isn't a lot of money in the horse industry, despite a lot of wealth circulating?
Michelle thinks there isn’t a lot of money in the horse industry because it’s a low-liquidity market. While there is a lot of wealth circulating, it’s often not profitable, and most of the money goes back into caring for and maintaining horses. She compares it to the monetization of sports like surfing and BMX, which have seen similar changes.
Why does Michelle Serna feel that horses are a valuable tool for personal growth and healing?
Michelle feels that horses are a valuable tool for personal growth and healing because they provide a unique connection and sense of comfort. Horses can be extremely therapeutic, pushing individuals to be their best selves and teaching important life lessons. For Michelle, being around horses has been particularly healing after facing the loss of her father.
Why did Michelle Serna decide to get involved with CrossFit despite initially being against it?
Michelle decided to get involved with CrossFit after breaking both her legs in 2020 and realizing she needed to improve her fitness to ride her horse better. She found that CrossFit provided a supportive and empowering environment, which helped her lose weight and regain her strength.
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