Pressure Right

Pressure, Pressure, Pressure…

Pressure in sports manifests as a complex psychological experience, characterized by an increasing sense of stress when faced with situations that are critical, unpredictable, and demanding both mentally and physically. The intensity of this pressure varies among athletes, shaped by multiple factors such as the significance of the competition, the weight of personal expectations, and the often-unspoken pressures exerted by coaches and external support. While certain athletes display an exceptional capacity to harness this pressure, transforming it into a catalyst for enhanced performance in pivotal moments, others find themselves overwhelmed, their ability to perform at peak levels diminished by the psychological toll.

As youths, we often learn to associate pressure with punishment, seeing it as something negative that signals a worsening situation. If this mindset carries into working with horses, responding to their mistakes with negative pressure can create a harmful pattern. Over time, the horse may come to expect severe punishment for errors, which can lead to a loss of motivation and willingness to continue. Eventually he’ll quit.

How well athletes handle pressure depends on their mental strength and preparation. Those who stay calm, focus on their actions rather than the outcome, and have strategies to manage stress are more likely to perform well in tough situations.

That’s an elaborate explanation of Pressure – for humans. How does/should a performance horse respond to pressure?

Back in our youths, we’re taught that pressure means punishment. Therefore, it becomes a negative thing that means things are going very wrong, and it’s a disaster that’s going to escalate. If pressure is not understood correctly, this same scenario may develop while you’re working or riding your horse when and he does something wrong and you respond with negative pressure. Over time, the horse may come to expect severe punishment for errors, which can lead to a loss of motivation and the willingness to continue. Eventually, he’ll quit.

Referring back to professional athletes, they use pressure to enhance their performance rather than seeing it as negative. Similarly, for a performance horse to learn positively from pressure, it should be applied during a maneuver when the horse is fully engaged. By using cues like a cluck, leg squeeze, or increased energy, the horse is encouraged to try harder. When done correctly, he learns that pressure becomes a positive opportunity to improve.

This learned process eventually becomes a signal that pressure means setup with more effort. In essence, pressure should apply when he’s doing the right thing, and not the wrong thing. This also develops confidence in your horse as well as the willingness to try harder.

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