Help your horse maintain calm composure during competitions and challenging situations.
A relaxed horse performs better than a tense one. Anxiety creates muscle tension, rigid movement, and poor decision-making. Teaching horses to remain calm under pressure is a critical skill for competition success. Relaxed horses move fluidly, think clearly, and cooperate willingly. This section covers evidence-based relaxation techniques that reduce stress and improve performance.
Before events, practice walk-halt-walk transitions with emphasis on long, relaxed walks. Deep breathing calms your horse's nervous system. 10-15 minutes of focused walking reduces tension dramatically.
Horses relax to rhythmic movement. Practice trotting to music before events. Consistent rhythm activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing anxiety.
Gentle massage before competition relaxes muscles and calms the nervous system. Focus on the neck, shoulders, and hindquarters with long, smooth strokes.
Hand-grazing with loose reins allows the horse to relax naturally. The act of eating triggers parasympathetic responses that calm anxiety.
Riders' emotions transmit to horses. Visualize successful performances and stay calm. Your relaxation helps your horse relax.
Tense riders hold their breath, which transmits to the horse. Practice deep, regular breathing while riding. This keeps you calm and helps your horse relax.
A rigid rider creates a rigid horse. Consciously relax your seat, legs, and hands. Feel the horse's motion beneath you rather than fighting it.
Replace nervous thoughts with calming affirmations. "My horse is relaxed. We are doing great." Positive thoughts reduce tension.
Broken rhythm increases anxiety. Keep a steady, predictable pace. Consistent rhythm calms both horse and rider.
Phase 1: At-Home Relaxation (Weeks 1-2)
Daily 15-minute sessions practicing relaxation techniques. No performance pressure.
Phase 2: Mild Challenges (Weeks 3-4)
Practice in slightly stressful situations. Ride in new areas or with distractions while maintaining relaxation.
Phase 3: Competitive Preparation (Weeks 5-6)
Simulate competition scenarios. Practice pre-event routines with relaxation techniques.
Phase 4: Maintenance (Ongoing)
Continue regular relaxation work. Include 10 minutes of calm work in every session.
Soft Eyes
Eyes are soft and forward-focused, not wide or showing white
Relaxed Jaw
Jaw is soft, not clenched. May show slight chewing motion.
Steady Breathing
Regular, deep breathing rather than rapid, shallow breathing