Horse show season is upon us, and unfortunately pre-class jitters are so common. This is true to so many other sports and competition events, more than just horse showing. The hype and stress of the event is enough to send many of us into a complete frenzy. It's important for you (and your horse or teammates) that you stay cool, calm, and collected. That may be harder than it seems, so for those struggling with nerves before competing or just wanting tips on preparing to compete, I've made a list of all the things I do before a class in hopes that they may work for you as well.
The day of:
After I've gotten hair and makeup done and put on my show clothes, I plug in my earbuds and sing it out. I'll sing and dance in my dressing room like no one is watching. Laughing at yourself is a good way to get rid of nerves, as well as literally shaking them out. (Cue Taylor Swift's "Shake it Off.")
I also make sure to get my body and mind warmed up enough before I get on my horse. I do some light yoga poses and meditation to stretch out my body and get in a focused, calm mindset. It's important to warm up your body in order to prevent strain and injury. I like to have some quiet time to myself just before I go down to meet my horse in order to breathe deeply and quiet my mind. Nerves and jitters are normal and OK, but we can make the chatter subside by just focusing on the breath.
The final thing I do before I show is talk with my instructors/coaches and my family. They help me to have a game plan and be centered. The one thing I need to hear before every competition is: "Smile and have fun," from my dad. He has said this my entire showing career. It wasn't always something I would think about, but now it's like a good luck charm. That's the most important thing about competing in any sport—smiling through whatever happens and having fun. We do what we do because we enjoy it, not because we don't. No matter what the outcome may be or what challenges cross your path, smiling and having fun is what really matters.
Leading up to the week of a horse show as well as during the week:
I make sure to eat and drink enough. This is a tough week with lots of exercise, heat, and exhaustion. Eating enough of the proper foods is crucial. Drinking enough water and staying hydrated is so important as well, especially once you're in layers and layers of show clothes or under the beating sun. Exercising, in general, especially showing horses, takes so much energy and strength so be sure to fuel your body properly.
Often just minutes before I show (especially before I aged out of equitation), you'll find me eating a decent sized snack. My instructor is adamant about making sure I've eaten enough so I am strong and able to perform well. I can remember standing in the aisle, eating a peanut butter sandwich while my horse is being bridled or eating a protein bar on the back of my horse while they get him cleaned up to go in the ring. (Did I mention this really works? I did this at a regional show my last year of junior exhibitor and won every championship. Coincidence, or strength?) This may be extreme for some, but it definitely worked for me. Eating just minutes before a class gives me the energy and stamina I need to control my dynamic hunger through rail work and a work off or perform rail work and a pattern just after.
As always, getting at least eight hours of sleep is crucial. The business of horse shows, any other competition, or even just life can make it difficult to get enough sleep. But your body really will thank you for at least six to eight hours of sleep the nights leading up to a competition. By doing so, your body will be stronger, and your mind will be clearer and more focused. Rest is vital to a solid performance.
By getting your body and mind in check and keeping them healthy, you can do anything. Taking care of yourself and staying strong, centered, and balanced will take you great lengths. Granted, we know fear doesn't always go away completely. The key is to manage your nerves in order to perform to the best of your ability.
