Our first novice test

[buzzman]

im entering for my first novice test on my horsey ive had hiim a year and weve done prelims but recently done alot of showjumping...

Ive decided to book a dressage for 2nd july and im doing prelim 13 and novice 27.

Im nervous - any tips on calming nerves for a dressage test.. i havent done one this year and im worried im going to tense up xx

 

[horsevideo]

I would say - practise your tests (in sections if your horse might anticipate) and get yourself videoed if you feel brave! Work out exactly which points you are riding to for each movement, eg quarter points for 15m circles, serpentines etc. It will get you accuracy marks.

On the day, get a caller if you are anything but totally confident you'll remember the test. Go through the test in your head before you go in - really helps me to avoid getting tests mixed up, especially if doing 2 in one day.

Also ban or avoid anyone who gets stressy/anxious/negative at shows - it's supposed to be fun!!

Do lots of sighing to relax you, roll your shoulders up to your ears then down your back. Shake your hands if they get tense (one at a time obv). Lift your leg off the saddle from the hip to oil your hip joints.

That's what I do anyway - hope you have fun.

A

 

[buzzman]

aw thank you ill try those tips and let u no how i get on!! xx