Whether you’re entering your first local show or heading to a bigger competition, preparation is everything. A well‑organised routine keeps both you and your horse calm, confident, and ready to perform at your best. This guide walks you through exactly how to prepare your horse — from training and fitness to packing, plaiting, and managing show‑day nerves.
1. Start Preparing Weeks in Advance
Good preparation begins long before show day. Focus on:
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Consistent schooling
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Building fitness gradually
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Practising the movements or course
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Checking tack fit
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Ensuring your horse is sound and healthy
A confident performance comes from solid groundwork.
2. Know the Rules of Your Discipline
Every discipline has its own rules. Check:
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Dress code
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Tack restrictions
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Allowed bits
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Test sheets or course maps
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Entry times and warm‑up rules
Avoid last‑minute surprises by reading everything carefully.
3. Practise the Environment
If your horse is inexperienced, introduce:
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White boards
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Flower pots
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Poles and fillers
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Loudspeakers
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Busy warm‑up arenas
Simulating show conditions reduces stress on the day.
4. Perfect Your Warm‑Up Routine
A good warm‑up helps your horse relax and focus. Include:
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Long, active walk
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Suppling exercises
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Transitions
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A few movements or jumps you’ll face in the ring
Keep it familiar and don’t overdo it.
5. Prepare Your Horse the Day Before
The day before the show, do your prep calmly. Tasks include:
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Bathing (if needed)
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Mane pulling or tidying
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Plaiting (or plaiting in the morning if preferred)
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Cleaning tack
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Checking travel boots and equipment
A relaxed horse = a better performance.
6. Pack Everything the Night Before
Avoid morning chaos by packing early. Essentials include:
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Passport
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Bridle, saddle, girth
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Show number
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Grooming kit
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Water bucket
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Hay net
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First aid kit
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Studs (if required)
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Spare reins, stirrups, gloves
Use a checklist to stay organised.
7. Travel Calmly and Safely
Before loading:
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Check tyres and lights
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Ensure partitions are secure
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Use travel boots or bandages
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Load calmly and without rushing
Arrive early to give your horse time to settle.
8. Manage Show‑Day Nerves
Both horses and riders feel nerves. To stay calm:
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Stick to your routine
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Breathe deeply
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Keep warm‑up simple
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Focus on your horse, not other competitors
Your horse mirrors your energy — stay steady.
9. After Your Class
Whether you win or not, cool down properly. Do:
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A long walk
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Offer water
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Loosen girth
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Remove boots
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Give a light groom
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Praise your horse
A positive finish builds confidence for next time.
10. Review and Improve
After the show, reflect on:
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What went well
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What needs work
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How your horse behaved
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Any training gaps
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Your warm‑up routine
Every competition is a learning opportunity.