Equestrianism definition: sport and equestrian art

Equestrianism is an exciting activity that combines riding a horse and sport. Practiced for leisure, competition, or therapy, it captivates its followers. It creates a strong bond between the rider and their horse. At the same time, it enhances our abilities while riding.

Main ideas to remember

• Equestrianism is an activity that can be practiced both as a sport and as an equestrian art
• It can be practiced in various contexts, such as leisure, competition, or therapy
• Equestrianism requires learning riding techniques and communication with the horse
• Practicing equestrianism allows for the development of a special bond with the animal
• Equestrianism involves the use of specific equipment, such as the saddle and stirrups

What is equestrianism?

Equestrianism goes beyond simply riding a horse. It is an art, a sport. It can be practiced for various reasons. For instance, for pleasure, for work, or even for competition.

Understanding equestrianism requires knowledge of its many aspects. This helps to see the depth of this ancient practice.

Definition of equestrianism

Equestrianism is like an art. It is the way one rides a horse according to rules. The word comes from the Latin equitare, which means “to ride a horse.”

Thus, equestrianism means not only riding but also the rules that surround it.

Natural aids in equestrianism

The natural aids help riders communicate with their horse. They use their legs to ask the horse to move forward or change pace. Their weight changes the direction of the horse.

The hands hold the reins to stop. And the gaze guides these actions. It’s a complex mix to direct the horse well.

Diversity of equestrian practitioners

Equestrianism blends sport and art, captivating millions of people. In France, over 2.7 million people aged 15 to 70 ride horses. This represents about 5.8% of the population.

Equestrian practitioners come from all walks of life. Children can start very early, as young as 4 years old. Additionally, seniors, like Queen Elizabeth II, continue to ride. They testify to the longevity of this passion.

Equestrianism offers many equestrian disciplines, such as dressage, show jumping, or horseball. Each discipline has its own challenges. Thus, there is something for everyone.

Whether you are young or older, a beginner or a professional, equestrianism promises you a fascinating world. It offers varied and enriching equestrian ages and disciplines.

Equestrianism definition: Sports preparation and training

Practicing equestrianism involves being fit. It is a challenging sport that requires balance and endurance. Before starting, one must prepare physically. This includes strengthening the body, stretching, and sometimes losing weight. Patrick Teisserenc, head of the riding school, recommends two hours of sport per week.

Rider preparation

The hands of the rider show their level of skill. Being fit improves our control of the hands. It also helps to better use the aids during riding.

Horse training

The horse must get used to carrying a rider and responding to commands. For this, certain methods are used. Unfortunately, some use force. Research by Deborah Goodwin shows that it was once believed that one had to dominate the horse to train it.

But today, gentler methods are preferred. They are based on trust and communication. These methods are becoming increasingly popular in the world of competition and leisure with horses.

Equestrianism: art or sport?

Equestrianism is a blend of art and sport. Originating from combat, it has become a unique form of creativity. This evolution has taken place over centuries.

Until the 19th century, equestrianism was seen as a way of fighting and a form of spectacle. With the advent of the circus, equestrian art found its space. Meanwhile, the military maintained a more utilitarian approach to equestrianism.

By closely examining equestrianism, one can see the technicality behind the movements of riders, especially at the trot. The way a rider holds themselves adds an artistic or sporting dimension to the activity. Dressage symbolizes this balance well, combining competition and technical finesse.

Thus, equestrianism remains between athletics and spectacle. This duality is what makes this sport so rich and captivating. It offers a unique experience, neither entirely a sport nor entirely an art.

Whether you consider equestrianism as a sport or an art, it remains an exciting adventure. It will provide you with enjoyable and beautiful moments, blending physical activity and aesthetics.

Conclusion

Equestrianism combines art and sport very well. On one side, it is the expression of lightness and elegance. On the sporting side, the discipline requires strength and endurance. This complex harmony is what makes it beautiful.

This magnificent sport involves close collaboration between the rider and the horse. Whether for winning in competition or just for a special bond, all help to maintain our heritage.

Equestrianism continues to evolve. However, its essence remains the same. It remains a unique link between man and animal. That is why it will continue to captivate future generations.