Performance Psychology: Managing Nerves and Pressure in the Arena

<p>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. </p><p>Episode Highlights: <br>25:12: The single biggest change every rider can make for their mental health and why self-care matters at all levels <br>31:25: Who should see a sports psychology coach and how performance psychology supports every rider <br>33:08: Strategies for working with sensitive horses and the mindset shifts that help you succeed under pressure <br>39:51: Practical exercises for managing show anxiety, using grounding techniques, and staying present in the moment <br>52:13: The benefits of meditation, simple calming exercises, and how to make mental fitness part of your routine </p><p>Meet the Expert, Ashley Johnson </p><p>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 ‘r’ judge and technical delegate with the USEA. Ashley was the inaugural coach of the University of Florida Eventing Team, a role she held for seven years, and is currently the Area 3 Young Rider Coach. She runs Totem Hill Farm in Ocala, Florida. </p><p>Episode Sponsor </p><p>Connaway &amp; Associates <br>The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway &amp; Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. </p><p>Visit <a href="https://www.connaway.net">www.connaway.net</a> or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  </p><p>Brought to you by Ride iQ  </p><p>This episode is part of the <em>Ask An Expert</em> podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. </p><p>Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&amp;As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and d