A: It’s not unusual for competitors to get nervous. It’s part of the adrenaline rush that most riders crave. Successful riders channel their nervous energy into a positive force, sort of like putting on their game face. Without this self-control, however, you’ll feel distracted and overwhelmed. One result you’ve experienced is going off course.
Here are a few ways to regain control of your horse show nerves. First, a nervous rider is often a rider who lacks confidence. Therefore, only enter classes with jumps that are set at or slightly below your comfort zone. Next, make sure your horse is trained sufficiently to compete. If you know in your heart that your horse isn’t up to the task you’ll feel even more anxious. Third, adopt a one-thing-at-a-time mindset. Focus on just the upcoming class, not the ones later that afternoon. Don’t fret about who’s watching from the rail. Forget about the rounds of your fellow competitors. Zero in on the course and how you plan on riding it.
As a final note, when you memorize your course, try to envision it as a series of straight lines and turns. After all, a jumping course is just a giant flatwork pattern with obstacles in the way. So instead of trying to recall the names of the jumps (like red panel, white gate, pink flowers, natural oxer), think, “Up the outside, down the diagonal line in five strides, up the outside line in six strides, across the diagonal, and the single at the end.” It’ll simplify the course in your mind, making your round less stressful. Less stress will lead to calmer nerves.
Ask your English riding questions on the horseillustrated.com Forums >>
See more Expert Q&As >>
Submit your Ask the Expert question >>
I had just flopped onto my couch, remote in hand. Sunny, one of my teenage daughters, breezed through the front…
For successful saddle fitting, it is as important to address the dynamic stability of the rider as it is the…
Economically speaking, 2023 was a less than banner year for most Americans, and charitable organizations that rely on public donations…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
After growing up horsey, Nancy still held on to her identity as a “horse girl” even when she hadn’t ridden…
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 29, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated…
View Comments
thanks for the info
I agree with the article completely. I also had trouble remembering courses and i do not try and remember all my courses i just do one at a time. And it does help to say outside, diagonal, single. The more you show the better you will be at remembering. Hope it helps.