HESTEFORSK Improving technical riding skills through unmounted training – an unexplored opportunity for better performance and horse welfare

Horseback riding presents a significant neuromotor control challenge, requiring postural stability, balance and precise communication with the horse. Postural asymmetries are common in riders. While balance is extremely trainable if using frequent repetition with high precision, unmounted training is not a part of the traditional riding education. The project aims to compare posture and motor control unmounted and while riding in intermediate level riders and to evaluate a 6-week targeted unmounted training program. We expect that rider postural abilities on the horse and unmounted will correlate; and that the training program will improve rider symmetry, synchronicity with the horse and ability to give precise aids, reflected in lower, more stable rein tension and increased movement symmetry and regularity in both horse and rider. Knowledge on how a rider should train to improve neuromotor skills will benefit both horse and rider, including safety, performance, and welfare.