How to Overcome Dressage Test Riding Nerves

Riding a dressage test can be a daunting experience from a novice rider all the way up to the very top FEI levels. We all feel the show nerves at some point but with a few pointers you can learn to overcome them and ride your best test ever.

Don’t worry, they aren’t looking at you as much as you think they are. If you are nervous because you think everyone is watching, just remember people are more concerned with how they are doing than with watching you. Even the spectators are more concerned with who they are there to watch than with how your test is doing.

Keep breathing or you will pass out! You must consciously tell yourself to relax and to keep breathing steadily. Holding your breath unconsciously will cause tension and you could even become light headed. Also try smiling through your test. Smiling can help you to feel more positive and it looks good to the judges.

You can get a little help from nature. Before the show, visit with your doctor, pharmacist or health food store for something to help calm your nerves the day of the show. Rescue remedy or Mimulus are both flower essences that are a great help to many riders to keep them calm. Remember to keep your horse calm. There are also legal herbal calmers for him if necessary.

There are a few things you can do ahead of time to keep nerves at bay. Be extra prepared before the test. Be sure you know all the movements of your tests by heart and that all your equipment, tack and horse are ready before the show so you have less to worry about. Also, be on time and know the way to the show grounds. Having to worry about being late or getting lost will just compound your nerves.

Get a little help from your friends. Have a caller for your test if it’s allowed will help if you are nervous about forgetting your test, but don’t use this as a substitute for learning the test in advance. Having a confident and calm friend there with you will help boost your confidence and keep you centered. And also, stay away from nervous people. They are contagious!

Take your time. Focus on your test and each movement and how you are riding. Enjoy your test and ride every movement without rushing. There’s no hurry to finish.

Before the show, prepare yourself physically. Do some physical exercise that morning or the night before to reduce anxiety. Also, having a hot bath or shower before you leave for the show can help relax you. Don’t eat too heavy of a meal or rich food before you go. It will sit in your stomach like a rock and make you feel worse. Have something light and nutritious and bring some healthy snacks with you.

Riding a dressage test doesn’t have to be nerve wracking. It should be a relaxing, lovely ride for both you and the horse. And with time and patience, you will be able to control your nerves and ride your best.


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