by Tonya Johnston, MA
Appeared in Hunter Jumper Magazine, July 2007
In a typical 8-hour day, how much time are amateur and junior competitors actually in the ring? 5 minutes? 10 minutes? This is the nature of horse showing, and it creates an interesting challenge. How can you best prepare yourself and get focused for the ring when it is finally time to ride?
Summer is here, and so is the heart of horse show season. The CDS Dressage Championships, the Menlo Charity Horse Show and the Oaks are just some of the competitions that can make even the most seasoned exhibitors feel some nervous anticipation. read more »
by Tonya Johnston
Appeared in California Dressage Society East Bay Chapter
February ’03 Newsletter
As we look forward to the rest of this year, it is important to set new goals and plan strategies for achieving them. Be mindful that as you set new goals you include both the mental and physical aspects of riding.
Tonya Johnston has turned the love of horses and riding into a productive career as a sport psychology consultant. read more »
by Tonya Johnston
Appeared in September ’03 issue of Ride! Magazine
Tonya explains a basic breathing control technique called Circle Breathing to improve relaxation, confidence, and focus in competition. read more »
by Di Rowling
Appearing in August/September ’01 issue of Hoofbeats
The key to success in competition doesn’t have to be focused on ‘winning’ per se, but rather on developing the attitude and self-belief that will lead to success. For this issue we sought the expertise of US equine sport psychology consultant Tonya Johnston in looking at creating a positive state of mind, and learning techniques and exercises for focusing and relaxing during competition. read more »
