Competing in equestrian sports is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. The best riders don’t just train their horses—they train their minds to handle the pressure of competition. Whether you’re stepping into the ring for the first time or competing at the highest levels, knowing how to stay calm, focused, and in control can make all the difference in your performance.
At Harley Brown Equestrian, we train riders not just for skill, but for confidence and composure under pressure. Here’s how you can develop a winning mindset and ride your best, no matter the stakes.
- Train Like You Compete
One of the best ways to prepare for the intensity of competition is to simulate it in your training sessions. The more you practice under similar conditions, the more natural competing will feel.
- Set up practice rounds that mirror the course layout, height, and environment of upcoming competitions.
- Practice with a time limit to replicate the pressure of a show round.
- Invite spectators to watch you ride to get used to an audience.
When competition day arrives, your brain will recognize the routine, and your nerves will settle.
- Control Your Breathing and Body Language
Your horse picks up on your emotions, so staying calm is critical. If you’re feeling anxious, your horse will feel it too.
- Focus on deep breathing. A few slow, controlled breaths before entering the arena can reduce tension.
- Check your posture. Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid stiffening your hands or gripping with your legs.
- Visualize success. Picture yourself riding confidently through the course before you even start.
The more relaxed and confident you appear, the more relaxed your horse will be, allowing you both to perform at your best.
- Stick to a Pre-Competition Routine
Having a structured pre-show routine eliminates uncertainty and gives you a sense of control. Elite athletes in every sport rely on routines to put them in the right mindset.
- Plan your warm-up ride. Know how much time you need and what exercises help you and your horse get into a rhythm.
- Avoid last-minute changes. Stick to the techniques you’ve practiced in training—competition is not the time to experiment.
- Keep a familiar routine. Whether it’s listening to music, stretching, or spending a quiet moment with your horse, small rituals can create a sense of normalcy.
By keeping things predictable, you reduce the chances of unnecessary stress creeping in before you compete.
- Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome
It’s easy to get caught up in winning, placing, or impressing judges, but the best riders focus on executing each step of their ride rather than worrying about results.
- Set performance-based goals, such as executing clean transitions or maintaining steady rhythm over fences.
- Think about one movement at a time. Instead of stressing over the entire round, focus on each step as it happens.
- Trust your training. If you’ve put in the work, the results will follow.
The less you fixate on winning, the more you can ride in the moment and perform at your best.
- Learn from Every Ride – Win or Lose
Even the best riders have off days, but every competition is an opportunity to learn. Instead of dwelling on mistakes, use them to improve for the next round.
- Analyze your ride. What went well? What can be improved?
- Get feedback from your trainer. A fresh perspective can help you adjust your strategy.
- Stay positive. Every round—good or bad—is a step toward becoming a better rider.
The greatest athletes don’t fear failure; they use it to get stronger.
- Train with Experts Who Understand Competition
Handling competition pressure is a skill that takes time and the right coaching to master. At Harley Brown Equestrian, we help riders build the mental and technical skills needed to excel under pressure.
Are you ready to compete with confidence and ride at your best? Train with us at Harley Brown Equestrian and take your performance to the next level.
By training your mind as well as your riding skills, you can handle competition pressure like a pro and step into the ring with confidence, focus, and control. Ride strong, trust your training, and embrace the challenge.
