Managing Anxiety in Equestrian Competitions
A Clinic by Ailish Hill Dressage
Anxiety - worries about the future. We all experience anxiety at times in our lives. Sometimes we manage it well, other times we struggle to keep it under control. Learning to recognize what anxiety looks like for you and developing ways to increase your tolerance can help ensure it doesn't affect your riding and competition performance.
The Importance of Anxiety Management
As we enter full swing for competition season for equestrian riders, Ailish Hill Dressage presents a clinic specially designed by a seasoned competitor in dressage who also suffers from anxiety. This clinic is aimed at helping both riders and horses manage their competition nerves, providing strategies to perform at their best.
If you want to learn how to manage your competition nerves to perform at your best or help your horse's anxiety, then this clinic is for you. The techniques and strategies taught will enable participants to recognize and address anxiety in both themselves and their horses.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress and can manifest in various forms. It is essential to recognize the symptoms of anxiety not only in yourself but also in your horse. Identifying the signs early can help in implementing effective management techniques.
Recognizing Anxiety in Yourself and Your Horse
Recognizing anxiety involves being aware of the physical, emotional, and behavioural signs. For riders, these signs can include increased heart rate, sweaty palms, and feelings of dread. Horses may show anxiety through behaviours such as pacing, excessive sweating, restlessness, and reluctance to engage.
Strategies to Manage Anxiety
Managing anxiety in equestrian sports requires a multifaceted approach. The clinic will cover several strategies, including:
• Breathing techniques: Deep breathing exercises to help calm the mind and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety.
• Visualization: Imagining a successful ride or competition to build confidence and reduce anxiety.
• Positive self-talk: Replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations to improve mental resilience.
Strategies to Manage Your Horse's and your own Anxiety
Horses are sensitive animals that can easily pick up on their rider's emotions. The clinic will offer strategies to manage your horse's anxiety, such as:
• Consistent training routines: Providing a stable and familiar environment to help reduce anxiety.
• Groundwork: Engaging in exercises that build trust and communication between rider and horse.
• Body language: Using calm and assertive body language to reassure your horse.
Self-Regulation Skills for Riders and Horses
Self-regulation involves controlling your emotions and behaviours. The clinic will teach skills that help both riders and horses maintain composure under pressure. These skills include:
• Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness to stay present and focused during competitions.
• Routine: Developing pre-competition routines that instill confidence and reduce anxiety.
• Relaxation techniques: Implementing techniques that help both rider and horse relax before and during competitions.
Clinic Overview
The day will comprise a ridden session, a psycho-educational theory session on anxiety management, and a groundwork/horsemanship session tailored to your needs.
Ridden Session
Participants will engage in a practical ridden session where they will apply the techniques learned. This session will focus on building confidence and reducing anxiety through practice and repetition.
Psycho-Educational Theory Session
This session will provide a comprehensive understanding of anxiety and its management. Participants will learn practical skills to take home and apply in their daily routines and competitions.
Groundwork/Horsemanship Session
The groundwork session will focus on building trust and communication with your horse. Participants will learn exercises that enhance the bond between rider and horse, creating a more harmonious and anxiety-free environment.
Conclusion
Managing anxiety is crucial for both riders and horses to perform at their best during competitions. The Ailish Hill Dressage clinic offers a valuable opportunity to learn and implement effective strategies for anxiety management. By recognizing and addressing anxiety, participants can ensure that it doesn't ruin their day or competition, leading to more successful and enjoyable equestrian experiences.
Clinic Information
Date: May 30th
Time: 9am to 1pm
Venue: Nambour Showgrounds Indoor Arena
Refreshments Provided
Cost: $145pp
Yards/stables: at venue hire fee booked through Ailish Hill Dressage
Bookings to be Paid in advanced by Tuesday 27th May
Spaces are limited so get in early.
Fence sitters: $50pp
Option to attend one session only (ridden, theory or horsemanship) at $90 each
Timetable will be sent on the week of clinic
Bookings/enquiries: contact Ailish on 0421849439 or
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