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Feeling nervous at bigger jump heights
Mental Training

Feeling nervous at bigger jump heights

I'm about to make my debut at 80cm with my D-pony but I'm a bit unsure when it comes to the higher heights. He reads the rider really well and doesn't trust you 100% if the rider gets nervous. When that's happened to me he's slammed on the brakes. I'm not worried about the height when it's a single fence, but on a full course I feel more unsure. I'd love some tips on how to think and build up my confidence when I'm out on the course and about to jump, so he finds it fun too! 😇
Answers from HayHay's experts

Feeling unsure when you take on something new, like bigger heights, is completely normal. You mention that single fences go well, but that you get frightened once you are on a full course. My tip is to build up gradually: jump one fence at the higher height, then add a second, then a third, rather than putting up a whole course at once. It is no surprise that your horse picks up on your nerves either. He is paying attention to you, which is actually a good thing. Think about how you ride, and what you are thinking and feeling in your body, when you jump heights you feel safe at, and see whether you can carry that across to the new height. It might be focusing on how you hold the rein, or focusing ahead to the next fence. If your horse recognises your riding from the lower height to the higher one, he will feel secure.

Good luck!

Elise Lindman
Elise Lindman
Sports Psychologist
Last reviewed:
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