Let’s say you are into horseback riding, yet you do not know what equestrian stands for. Well, it’s a Latin term that simply refers to horseback riders who take part in different horseriding activities. Likely, the term “equestrianism” includes horseback riding activity along with different forms of riding.
About Equestrian
For ages, equestrian has been one such sport or activity that’s benefitted the human race in various aspects. Whether it’s agricultural field work, cattle ranching, military or simply sports, equestrian riders are found everywhere. In today’s time, equestrian is such a vast field that it’s famous across the globe.
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Equestrianism, also known as horse riding or horseback riding, is the art of riding, driving, or vaulting with horses. It is an activity that has been enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds for centuries. More so, equestrians engage in various activities with horses, including competitive and non-competitive events, recreational riding, and therapeutic riding.
Various Equestrian Activities
1. Competitive Equestrianism:
It involves various disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, endurance riding, reining, and vaulting. Each discipline has its own rules, requirements, and scoring systems. Equestrians who compete in these events train for months, and sometimes years, to perfect their skills and techniques. The level of competition can range from local shows to international events such as the Olympics.
2. Non-competitive Equestrianism:
It involves recreational riding, trail riding, and horse camping. Many equestrians enjoy spending time with their horses in nature, exploring trails and taking in the scenery. Horse camping is another popular activity where equestrians bring their horses to campgrounds and spend a few days camping and riding.
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3. Therapeutic Riding:
This is another aspect of equestrianism that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves using horses as therapy for individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. Therapeutic riding can help improve balance, coordination, strength, and confidence in individuals with disabilities.
Likely to say, the role of an equestrian can vary depending on the discipline and activity. For example, in competitive equestrianism, an equestrian may be a rider, trainer, groom, or stable manager. A rider’s role is to ride the horse in competitions and perform the required tasks to score points. A trainer’s role is to train the horse and rider to perform at their best. A groom’s role is to care for the horse’s needs, such as grooming, feeding, and cleaning. A stable manager’s role is to oversee the daily operations of a stable, such as managing the staff, scheduling appointments, and managing the finances.
What’s the difference between Non-Competitive and Therapeutic riding?
When looking at the bigger picture, every style of riding is different from one another. Similarly, when going for non-competitive equestrianism, the role of an equestrian may be more casual. Furthermore, it may involve caring for the horse, such as grooming, feeding, and exercising. The equestrian may also be responsible for the safety of the horse and rider during trail rides or camping trips.
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On the other hand, in therapeutic riding, the role of an equestrian may be quite different. More so, it can either be that of an instructor, therapist, or volunteer. The instructor’s role is to teach the rider the necessary skills to ride the horse safely and effectively. Accordingly, the therapist’s role is to use the horse as a form of therapy to help the rider.
This will help improve their physical, mental, or emotional well-being. The volunteer’s role is to assist with the rider’s needs, such as helping them mount and dismount the horse, leading the horse during the ride, and providing support to the rider.
Conclusion
In simple words, equestrianism is a diverse activity that offers something for everyone. Whether competing at a high level or enjoying a leisurely trail ride, equestrians share a love and respect for these magnificent animals. The role of an equestrian can vary depending on the activity and discipline, but all equestrians share a passion for horses and the bond that comes with working with these amazing animals.
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