Welcome back to another episode of the Unstoppable Equestrian Video Blog — this is Video #74!
Welcome back, riders!
I’m Danielle Pooles from Dressage Plus, and in today’s Unstoppable Equestrian video blog, I’m sharing a mindset tool that’s been a game-changer for me and the riders I coach. It’s all about managing competition nerves using what I call the Baby Step Approach.
Whether you’re preparing for a big dressage comp, heading back out after a break, or simply wanting to feel more in control on comp day, this simple shift in how you approach your expectations can help you ride with less pressure and more confidence.
Watch the full video above to hear how I use this in my own riding!
Why Managing Competition Nerves Matters
As riders, we often place high expectations on ourselves before a competition — aiming to score well, stay relaxed, or ride a perfect test. While these goals are natural, they can pile on pressure and make us feel tense before we even get in the saddle.
The key to managing competition nerves isn’t about lowering your standards — it’s about shifting your focus using tools like the Baby Step Approach. This mindset tool gives you a way to ease internal pressure and build calm, step-by-step.
What Is the Baby Step Approach?
The Baby Step Approach is a mental strategy I use when I start to feel nervous before a comp. It’s about intentionally giving yourself permission to step back — so you can actually step forward with more ease.
Here’s how it works:
- If my horse is tense or things feel off in warm-up, I remind myself: “I don’t have to compete. I can just warm up today.”
- If I’m feeling overwhelmed, I tell myself: “I can retire mid-test if I need to — and that’s okay.”
- By giving myself that “out,” I reduce the pressure. And the amazing thing? I’ve never actually needed to take the out. But it’s helped me breathe, relax, and ride better every time.
How to Use the Baby Step Approach
Break the competition day into
small, manageable steps. Every time nerves creep in, mentally scale it down… baby step out your day, like this example below.
Why This Approach Works
This isn’t about giving up — it’s about creating mental space. When you stop clinging to perfection or results, your body and mind soften. You ride with more presence. Your horse feels your calm. And ironically, your performance often improves.
When it comes to managing competition nerves, the Baby Step Approach reminds you that you’re in control. You always have a choice. And just knowing that helps you stay grounded.
How to Use It Before Your Next Competition
Before your next comp (or even your next clinic or rally day), check in with your expectations. Then try this:
- Say to yourself: “If it doesn’t go to plan, I can just warm up. I can choose to sit this one out.”
- Visualise yourself calmly getting ready without pressure.
- Let the ride unfold — one baby step at a time.
Practising the Baby Step Approach regularly will help with managing competition nerves long term — not just on comp day.
Your Rider Challenge This Week
Try this mental reframe before your next comp or lesson. Give yourself permission to step back if needed. Most of the time, just knowing you have that option will be enough to help you relax and ride better.
Free Toolkit for Dressage Riders
Want more mindset tools for managing competition nerves and improving your pre-comp prep?
Download your free Dressage Rider’s Competition Preparation Toolkit here.
External Tip for Further Reading
Keen to learn more exercises for managing competition nerves? Here’s a helpful article from Equestrian Australia, Manage Pre-competition Nerves.
Manage Pre-competition Nerves
Coming Next
This is Video Blog #90 in the Unstoppable Equestrian series. You might also enjoy: