The article discusses how constant phone use at horse shows can negatively impact riders’ performance by causing “internet brain,” a state of fractured attention and hypervigilance that persists even after putting the device away. Performance coach Brad Stulberg emphasizes that excellence in equestrian sports requires deep intimacy and focused connection with the horse, which is undermined by digital distractions. The cognitive residue from scrolling social media or checking results prevents riders from fully settling their nervous systems, reducing their ability to regulate emotions and maintain composure during competition.

Stulberg highlights the problem of phones acting as “adult pacifiers,” filling uncomfortable moments with stimulation instead of allowing riders to mentally reset. He suggests creating boundaries around technology use, such as phone-free zones or gradually tapering social media before major events, to reclaim focus and presence. Ultimately, the article stresses that while technology can support learning and logistics, true excellence demands undivided attention—distraction, not the phone itself, is the real enemy.