Show Jitters: How to Manage Competition Nerves | The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast
Do competition nerves hold you back when it matters most?
In this episode of The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast, equestrian mindset coach Neil Foster explores show jitters, why they happen, why they’re so common among riders, and how you can learn to manage competition nerves without forcing confidence or “just thinking positive.”
This supportive, in-depth episode helps riders at all levels understand what’s really happening in the mind and body under pressure. Neil shares practical tools and insights drawn from mindset coaching, mindfulness, Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), hypnosis, and nervous system regulation, all tailored specifically for equestrians.
You’ll learn:
Why show nerves are normal, and what they actually mean
How your nervous system affects performance and connection with your horse
Simple mindfulness techniques to calm competition anxiety
How NLP and visualisation can rewire negative competition experiences
How hypnosis works to build subconscious confidence for riders
Why you don’t need to eliminate nerves to ride well
This episode is perfect for riders who feel confident at home but struggle at competitions, overthink under pressure, or want to feel calmer, more focused and more in control on show days.
Next episode: Fear of Falling: Breaking Through the Hidden Barrier
Whether you’re a dressage rider, show jumper, eventer, or happy hacker stepping into competition, this episode reminds you that you are not alone and that confidence is something you can learn.
