A equestrian horse is a horse that is trained for equestrian competition. Equestrian competitions include show jumping, dressage and eventing. A horse that is trained for equestrian events must be able to perform all of the required moves in the different disciplines. Dressage is the most difficult form of equestrianism, and is the only discipline that is included in the Olympic Games.
The word equestrian is derived from the Latin word equus, meaning “horse”. Ancient records suggest that people began riding horses for work and recreation around 3500 BC. During that time, people used different types of saddles and harnesses to control the animals. Later, European settlers in the United States and Canada brought their own traditions for working and competing with horses.
In a sport called equestrianism, the horse is ridden by a rider, who is also known as a jockey, wrangler or horseman. A person who rides horses is often referred to as a hippophile, which means that they love or appreciate horses. This is a very positive term, and a person who loves horses may be a good candidate for a career as an equestrian.
To be an effective equestrian, a rider must communicate with the horse in a number of ways. One way is to use soft hands, which are used to gently guide the horse without pulling on him. Another way to communicate with the horse is through a deep seat, where the rider sits in the pocket of the horse’s back and places their weight on their seat bones rather than on their crotch. An effective equestrian must also be able to move with the horse’s movement, rather than fighting it.
A gelding is a male horse that has been castrated. Mares are female horses that have not been gelded. Foals are young horses, usually under a year old.
There are many different types of equestrian competitions, including show jumping, cross-country and endurance riding. The FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) defines the rules that are used in equestrian competitions. Show jumping involves jumping a course of obstacles that are built to be challenging for both the rider and the horse. Cross-country is an equestrian competition that requires the rider to navigate a course of solid obstacles that are located over a long distance. Endurance riders compete over mountainous and other natural terrain, and make scheduled stops to check their horses’ vital signs and health.
A person who tries to compete in equestrian events must have the proper equipment, including a horse, halter and saddle. They should also wear appropriate clothing, such as riding pants or breeches and boots. A rider should also consider using a crop or special reins for added help with maneuvering their horse. These tools should be used sparingly to avoid injuring the animal, and a rider should always be careful when handling a horse. A horse can become agitated or aggressive when handled roughly, so a rider should never pull on the animal.