equestrians

An equestrian is a person who rides and cares for horses, or who participates in equestrianism, the body of sports and activities involving horses. The term applies to amateurs and professionals alike, including riders, trainers, handlers, officials, and judges. Equestrianism encompasses both competitive disciplines and recreational riding, therapeutic riding, and driving with horses.

Riders develop skills such as balance, coordination, and communication with the horse using aids, while also maintaining knowledge of horse care, nutrition, welfare, and stable management. Common safety equipment includes protective headgear, riding boots, and sometimes body protectors, with tack such as a saddle, bridle, bit, and reins used to control the horse.

Competitive disciplines include dressage, show jumping, and eventing (the three-day event). Other disciplines include endurance riding, reining, vaulting, and polo; many nations also support driving as a related activity. International competition is governed by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), with Olympic events and the World Equestrian Games as major stages, and national federations organizing national championships.

Horse welfare and ethical husbandry are central concerns in modern equestrian communities, with standards for welfare, veterinary care, and humane training emphasized by governing bodies. The sport spans rural and urban settings and remains highly international, with riders and horses traveling for competitions and breeding programs contributing to contemporary bloodlines.