You’ve ridden your horse every day for the last six months. Your horse is on the best feeding regiment possible. You have top of the line equipment for your horse and clothing for yourself. You arrive early to your show/event and take your time. Then, you get in your class and blow it. What gives? Did you over school your horse? Did you let your pre-competition jitters affect your mindset, focus, or confidence? Are you anticipating failure? Are you mentally prepared to perform well?
Something that we as equestrians tend to look over is our mind game. It is one of the most important tools for us as riders. If you are mentally prepared, your confidence will go through the roof. Another secret - your horse will be more confident too! Your horse feeds off your energy. So how can you improve your mind game?
Think positively. The arena is yours. Your time in there is the only time you have. You have been continuously practicing and are physically prepared. Let yourself become mentally prepared.
Imagine the outcome that you want to see. Whether it is a pattern, rail classes, or a timed event, imagine the outcome. Imagine you clearing a jump, or completing perfect transitions - whatever it may be! See this in your mind and do it.
Take the time to think things through. Don’t ride impulsively. Ride with a plan. Take your time on the things that need special attention. Don’t just ride through it and hope for the best.
Never anticipate failure. Failure is NOT your friend. Don’t imagine yourself failing. Don’t anticipate something going wrong. If your horse struggles with a lead, don’t hold your breath and wait for them to mess up. Ride with positivity and get through it.
Be prepared. Know your patterns, know your strengths, know your weaknesses and shine through it all. Focus on what you need to do.
Your mental game has one player and that is you. Be prepared, be positive, and be ready for amazing outcomes!
For more information about mental preparation for equestrians, visit: http://www.equestriancoach.com/content/mental-preparation
