Performance Anxiety in the Saddle: Managing Nerves and Building Confidence as an Equestrian
DESCRIPTION: Nerves are a normal part of riding and competition, but when they become intense enough to interfere with attention, confidence, decision-making, or performance, they can become performance anxiety. For equestrians, anxiety can be especially complex because riders are not only managing their own thoughts, emotions, and physical responses—they are also communicating with another living being. This interactive workshop will help riders better understand how performance anxiety shows up mentally, emotionally, physically, and behaviorally. Participants will explore their own anxiety patterns and triggers, learn how thoughts and physical responses can influence riding and confidence, and practice strategies for managing nerves before, during, and after a ride, building greater awareness and confidence.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Equestrians of all levels who experience nerves, self-doubt, fear, overthinking, or performance pressure during riding, lessons, training, or competition. This workshop will also be helpful for riders returning after a fall, difficult experience, or period away from riding.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Participants will learn how performance anxiety can affect thoughts, emotions, physical reactions, attention, and behavior in the saddle. Through guided reflection and interactive exercises, participants will identify their own performance-anxiety triggers and patterns and explore where they may be able to interrupt the anxiety cycle.
DATE AND LOCATION: You can choose either the online or in person workshop on:
Wednesday October 21st 6-7 pm. (online - link will be sent once you register) or Saturday October 24th 10-11 am at our Sacramento Location.
FACILITATOR: Chloe Haws, MA. is a Psychology Trainee at Endurance – A Sports and Psychology Center, Inc., and a third-year doctoral student in clinical psychology. She works under the supervision of licensed psychologist, Dr. Nyamora, the founder of Endurance – A Sports and Psychology Center, Inc. Chloe has been riding and competing in different English equestrian disciplines since age four. She is an Army veteran with clinical experience across outpatient, inpatient, and school-based settings. Her clinical interests include anxiety, stress, performance, confidence, and helping individuals develop practical strategies that support both psychological well-being and meaningful performance.
REGISTRATION PROCESS: Pay $50 here and email admin@endurancecenter.org to request either the link to the online workshop or in person location information. You can also call (510) 981-1471 for more information.
