If you’ve ever felt your heart race or your hands shake before stepping into the show ring, you’re not alone. Competition anxiety is a universal challenge for athletes of all types, whether you’re navigating a jump-off or preparing for the NFL playoffs. As the Eagles fight for their chance at Super Bowl glory today, they’re managing their own high-stakes pressure and there’s plenty we equestrians can learn from their strategies.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or gearing up for your first show, managing nerves is key to performing at your best. Let’s take a look at how to channel that energy into confidence, just like the pros do on the football field.
What Is Competition Anxiety?
Competition anxiety is your body’s natural response to high-pressure situations. Your brain releases adrenaline to prepare you for action, which can sharpen your focus but too much of it can leave you overthinking, tense, or distracted.
For equestrians, this might look like second-guessing your aids, worrying about your horse’s behavior, or overanalyzing every competitor in your division. NFL players, including the Eagles, deal with similar challenges. Whether it’s an intense playoff game or a high-profile rivalry, the stakes are massive, and the pressure is real.
1. Preparation Is Power 🏋️♂️
Success starts long before competition day. NFL players spend weeks watching game film, running drills, and reviewing plays to prepare for every scenario. Similarly, the better prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel in the ring.
• Practice under pressure: Simulate show conditions at home with mock tests or courses.
• Know your plan: Whether it’s memorizing a dressage test or walking your course, repetition builds muscle memory and trust in your abilities.
• Prep your gear: Double-check your tack, show clothes, and equipment so there’s no last-minute scrambling.
Preparation doesn’t eliminate nerves, but it gives you a foundation to fall back on when they hit.
2. Visualize Success 🧠
Visualization is a powerful tool used by top athletes to train their minds for success. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, for example, often talks about visualizing plays before they happen. You can apply the same strategy to your riding:
• Close your eyes and imagine yourself riding a flawless round or test.
• Picture how it feels your rhythm, your aids, and the partnership with your horse.
• Focus on positive outcomes, not mistakes.
When you practice visualization regularly, your brain starts to believe in those outcomes, making them easier to achieve in real life.
3. Build a Pre-Competition Routine ⏱️
Routines are key for athletes in any sport. NFL players rely on game-day rituals to get in the zone, whether it’s listening to music, wearing lucky gear, or sticking to specific warm-ups. As an equestrian, you can create your own routine to calm your nerves and build focus:
• Warm up consistently: Find a routine that works for you and your horse, and stick to it for every show.
• Incorporate grounding techniques: Deep breathing, stretching, or even a quick meditation can help calm your mind and body.
• Use a mantra: A simple phrase like “Ride forward and trust my training” can keep your focus sharp.
Routines provide structure and familiarity, helping you feel in control when the stakes are high.
4. Focus on the Present Moment 🌟
Both football and riding require staying present. For NFL players, dwelling on a fumble or missed play can lead to mistakes later in the game. The same is true for equestrians overthinking what just happened or what might go wrong can derail your performance.
• Concentrate on your horse’s movement and your aids in the moment.
• Let go of mistakes and focus on the next step one stride at a time.
• Tune out distractions, whether it’s the announcer, other competitors, or the crowd.
Staying present helps you and your horse stay connected, which is essential for a successful ride.
5. Take Care of Your Body and Mind 🍎
Athletes like the Eagles prioritize physical and mental health to stay in top form. They follow strict nutrition plans, focus on hydration, and make recovery a priority. As an equestrian, you and your horse are a team, so taking care of both is crucial:
• Fuel your body: Eat balanced meals and snacks to maintain energy levels.
• Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially on long show days.
• Get enough rest: Sleep is essential for focus and physical recovery.
Don’t forget about your horse; make sure they’re fit, healthy, and ready to compete. A well-conditioned partner can boost your confidence and help you stay calm.
6. Embrace the Nerves 🤝
Here’s a secret: even the best athletes in the world, from NFL players to Olympic equestrians, feel nervous before competing. The key is learning to use those nerves as fuel instead of letting them take over.
• Remind yourself that nerves mean you care.
• Reframe anxiety as excitement - it’s the same energy, just viewed through a different lens.
• Trust in your preparation and focus on what you can control.
As Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni says, “Control controllables.” You can’t control the weather, the footing, or the competition - but you can control your mindset and your connection with your horse.
7. Celebrate Your Wins (Big and Small)🎉
After every game, NFL teams review their performance and celebrate their victories - whether it’s a game-winning touchdown or a well-executed play. As an equestrian, it’s easy to focus on what went wrong, but don’t forget to acknowledge your progress:
• Celebrate the little victories, like staying calm in the ring or nailing a tough movement.
• Reward yourself and your horse with a treat or a relaxing trail ride.
• Reflect on the experience and use it as a stepping stone for growth.
Every competition is an opportunity to learn and improve - win or lose.
In the End, It’s All About Passion
Whether you’re in the show ring or on the football field, the love of the game is what drives us. The Eagles, like all NFL teams, push through the pressure because they’re passionate about their sport. As equestrians, we’re no different -our bond with our horses and our love for riding make it all worth it.
So the next time you feel competition anxiety creeping in, channel your inner athlete. Prepare, visualize, stay present, and embrace the journey. You’ve got this!
And today, as we cheer on the Eagles, let their determination and focus inspire your next ride. Fly, Eagles, Fly!💚🦅💚
What’s your favorite way to manage competition nerves? Share your tips below!⬇️
Comments