Performance Psychology: Managing Nerves and Pressure in the Arena
About this episode
Ashley Johnson discusses performance psychology and strategies for managing nerves and pressure in equestrian competitions.
Nerves can make it hard to ride the way you know you can - and show up for your horse the way you want to. In this episode of Ask an Expert, 5* event rider and performance psychologist Ashley Johnson shares actionable tools for conquering competition fears, building resilience, and supporting sensitive or emotional horses. Episode Highlights: 25:12: The single biggest change every rider can make for their mental health and why self-care matters at all levels 31:25: Who should see a sports psychology coach and how performance psychology supports every rider 33:08: Strategies for working with sensitive horses and the mindset shifts that help you succeed under pressure 39:51: Practical exercises for managing show anxiety, using grounding techniques, and staying present in the moment 52:13: The benefits of meditation, simple calming exercises, and how to make mental fitness part of your routine Meet the Expert, Ashley Johnson Ashley Johnson is a 5* event rider, Level V ICP certified instructor, and “A” Pony Club graduate. She holds a Master’s in psychology focused on performance from Harvard and a Master’s in human performance from the University of Florida. She is also a licensed…
People in this episode
Guest: Ashley Johnson
Topics covered
- performance psychology
- competition anxiety
- mental health
- riding techniques
- sensitive horses
Keywords
- performance psychology
- competition fears
- mental fitness
- show anxiety
- grounding techniques
Sponsors
Connaway & Associates
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