Trainingriding

Trainingriding is a term used in some equestrian coaching circles to describe a systematic approach to developing both rider skill and horse performance through structured, goal-oriented practice. It emphasizes periodization, progressive loading, and integrated feedback to improve communication, balance, and responsiveness on the horse, rather than training the horse alone. The framework is applied across disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, eventing, and other mounted sports, and it can also be adapted to disciplines like mountain biking or road cycling where rider form and endurance are trained alongside technique.

Key components include goal setting, a written training plan, and regular assessment. Sessions typically combine groundwork, flatwork, and gymnastic or pole work with rider-focused drills to improve seat, aids, and core stability. Video analysis, cue refinement, and mental rehearsal are common tools. Conditioning may include cross-training, cardio work, and flexibility exercises to enhance proprioception and balance.

Equipment and safety considerations include appropriate protective gear, well-fitted tack, and supervision for complex drills. Variants of trainingriding may emphasize different balances of saddle time to off-horse conditioning and may adapt to individual rider-horse teams.

Despite its potential benefits, successful trainingriding requires balancing progression with rest, attention to horse welfare, and adherence to coaching guidance to avoid overtraining and rider frustration.