Equestrianism is a sport that consists of different disciplines. While some of them test the physical and psychological endurance of horse and rider, others focus on demonstrating great ease and elegance.
We believe that all horses can be adapted to the various disciplines. However, the specific qualities of each breed, in terms of character and physical characteristics of the horses, make them more suitable for some equestrian modalities than others.
In this sense, we find, for example, Hanoverian horses, characterized by their elegance and athletic movements, very suitable for the discipline of dressage, while, for example, Central European horses, such as French saddle or KWPN, have become one of the best breeds for the discipline of jumping.
Each discipline has specific requirements that must be met. And both horse and rider must be up to the task and meet the demands of each test. With this in mind, what qualities should a horse have to excel in dressage? And in the demanding Raid test?
Everything you need to know about horse characteristics for different equestrian disciplines.
Characteristics of Horses for Dressage Training
Dressage is one of the most popular and practiced equestrian disciplines in the world. In this modality, the harmony between the rider and the horse is valued during the execution of movements of great difficulty.
These movements must be performed in the established order and in a natural manner by the horse. How is such a feat achieved? After an exhaustive training of both rider and horse, where the special bond that unites them is created.
What are the characteristics of dressage horses? Docile character, agility, elegance and intelligence. In this sense, Hanoverian and Westphalian horses more than fulfill these qualities.
Characteristics of Jumping Horses
Undoubtedly one of the most famous disciplines in the world. The equestrian jumping tests the union between horse and rider, as they must be completely integrated to achieve the objectives of this test.
From parallel bars to small walls, through pits, the rider and horse must complete the course in the shortest time possible without falling over any obstacles or refusals.
What is the best horse for show jumping? Flexible, agile, obedient and elegant, because this is a discipline that values spectacle and beauty in the performance of jumps.
Among the most suitable breeds for this equestrian discipline, we find the French Warmblood Silla, characterized by its agility and flexibility, as well as its docile character, which facilitates training.
Characteristics of Raid horses
The Raid is one of the most demanding disciplines for both horse and rider. It requires the pair to cover long distances in just one day, so the animal’s endurance and the rider’s ability to dose the horse’s strength are key to overcoming it.
The severity of the test tilts the balance in favor of horses characterized by strength, endurance and exceptional physical conditions. In this sense, the Arabian horse is one of the best adapted to this discipline, since its morphology allows it to withstand long distances.
In addition to its physical characteristics, it is essential that the horse has a balanced character, because the Raid discipline is as demanding physically as it is mentally.
Characteristics of horses for Doma Vaquera
In Doma Vaquera, the presence and image of the horse is of vital importance. It is a discipline in which the beauty of these majestic animals is praised above all.
In this discipline, the horse must perform a series of movements derived from those performed in the field to work with cattle. The horse par excellence for Doma Vaquera is the Pura Raza Española, characterized by its agility, dexterity and ease in performing the exercises.
In addition, PRE horses are balanced, noble, docile and exceptionally beautiful.
Characteristics of the horses for the entire competition
This equestrian discipline is the equivalent of the triathlon for athletes. Three events are held over three days: dressage, cross country and show jumping. All tests are performed by the same horse.
Therefore, if we have to highlight one characteristic of the horse, it is versatility. Undoubtedly, the ideal horse for the discipline of eventing must be endowed with agility, speed, endurance, docility, elegance and balance.
This is a very complete competition that requires effort, perseverance and experience from both the animal and the rider.
Characteristics of horses for turning
This equestrian acrobatic discipline consists of performing gymnastic exercises on a horse galloping in a circle, guided “on the rope” by a rider. It is one of the least known disciplines in the equestrian world, although its popularity continues to grow.
This discipline requires great physical strength on the part of the rider, as well as extensive experience in riding horses. They have to perform exercises of great technical difficulty, which together form an original and beautiful choreography.
As far as the horse is concerned, its behavior is most appreciated by the judges, as well as its connection with the gymnast. The docile, balanced and gentle character of the horses are the most sought-after qualities for the practice of this discipline.
In addition to these qualities that make up the horse’s personality, the physical requirements are: a broad and flat back, a round neck and a rump characterized by its good musculature. In addition, the horse must have smooth and defined movements that allow the gymnast to perform the exercises comfortably and safely.
True passion for the equestrian world.
