Tonya Johnston, M.A.

As equestrians, many of us share the same frustrations.  The sport appears so simple to most observers (especially those that don’t ride!), yet it is quite complex. Not only are you constantly finiting your own technical skills, but you must also factor in the variables affecting your four-legged partner.  All the while you must mentally block out that your rides are typically critiqued by others at both the stable and at competitive venues.  It is both a humbling and a rewarding sport and one that requires dedication, thick skin and mental clarity to progress.

Over the last couple of years I have experienced much change in my riding endeavors. I have committed to focusing more on the USEF hunter division, sold horses, changed programs, leased horses and finally purchased what I hope is the horse of a lifetime.   Additionally, as I grow older, my responsiblities have changed and I now I find myself with a fear that I never acknowledged before. These changes have perpetuated insecurities, but there is one resource that I consistently turn to overcome my personal challenges. This tool is Tonya Johnston’s sport psychology book, “INSIDE YOUR RIDE”  and each chapter tackles a different topic and explains it in relateable terms. 

I have a profound trust in Tonya’s work as a mental skills coach due to her extensive academic credentials and her professional experience that encompasses coaching riders from the pony ring to those competing in the highest echelons of the world.  Additionally, she can relate to equestrian sport because she is a hunter/jumper rider herself and understands the questions and environment that we all face.  Finally, I find her program refreshing because it is intended to develop riders that are totally self-sufficient and confident.

This week's profile features a close up first-hand perspective from Tonya Johnston and the importance of mental skills and equestrian sport.

Salut!