Discover the various Equestrian Disciplines

This discipline involves navigating a course of jumps within a set time limit. The aim is to complete the course with the fewest faults, such as refusals, knockdowns, or time penalties.

Often described as “horse ballet,” dressage involves a series of precise, predetermined movements executed by horse and rider. The goal is to showcase the horse’s natural athleticism and training through smooth, controlled performances.

A three-phase competition combining dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. It tests the versatility and endurance of the horse and rider. The phases are: Dressage, Cross-Country, and Show Jumping

Focuses on the rider’s position, effectiveness, and communication with the horse. Riders are judged on their form and ability to execute patterns and courses with correct technique.

A team sport played on horseback where players use a mallet to hit a ball into the opposing team’s goal. It requires strong riding skills, teamwork, and strategy.

A traditional style of riding where both legs are on one side of the horse. It emphasizes elegance and formality and is often featured in specific competitive events and exhibitions.

A highly stylized discipline where horse and rider perform a set pattern of movements, including spins, slides, and circles. Reining showcases the horse’s responsiveness and agility.

In this discipline, horse and rider work to separate a single cow from a herd and keep it away for a set period. Cutting tests the horse’s ability to work with cattle and the rider’s skill in managing the herd.

A timed event where horse and rider navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. The goal is to complete the pattern as quickly as possible without knocking over the barrels.

A timed event where horse and rider weave through a series of poles set in a straight line. The objective is to navigate the poles as quickly and accurately as possible.

A pattern-based event where horse and rider perform a series of maneuvers, including changes of lead and circles, demonstrating smooth transitions and control. The horse’s ability to perform smoothly and correctly is judged.

In this event, horse and rider navigate a course with various obstacles, such as gates, logs, and bridges. It tests the horse’s ability to handle real-world situations and obstacles with confidence and the rider’s ability to guide the horse through them.

A relatively new discipline designed to showcase a horse’s versatility and suitability for ranch work. It includes a pattern of gaits and maneuvers that simulate ranch tasks, emphasizing the horse’s ability to perform tasks in a calm and effective manner.

A timed event where a rider on horseback chases a steer, dismounts, and then wrestles the steer to the ground by grabbing its horns and twisting it.

Involves guiding one horse pulling a single carriage or cart. This discipline focuses on the driver’s ability to manage the horse and vehicle efficiently, emphasizing precision and control in various driving scenarios.

Features two horses pulling a carriage or cart. This discipline tests the driver’s skill in coordinating and managing two horses working in tandem, requiring synchronization and effective communication between the driver and the horses.

Encompasses driving teams of horses beyond the traditional pair or four-in-hand, such as six-in-hand or eight-in-hand. It demands exceptional driving skills and the ability to manage large teams, emphasizing the driver’s proficiency and the horses’ ability to work together.

Focuses on the presentation and turnout of the horse, carriage, and driver, as well as the smoothness and style of the drive. This discipline emphasizes overall impression and elegance, often featuring relaxed, aesthetically pleasing performances.

Part of combined driving, this discipline involves navigating a cross-country course with various obstacles. It tests the endurance, speed, and navigation skills of the horse and driver, requiring effective management through diverse and challenging terrain.

Another phase of combined driving where the driver navigates a course of cones and obstacles within a set time. Precision and accuracy are essential, focusing on the ability to maneuver through tight spaces and around barriers.

Focuses on practical driving skills, where the horse and driver navigate everyday obstacles and tasks. It tests the horse’s versatility and the driver’s ability to handle various real-world scenarios, emphasizing functional skills and adaptability.

A traditional form of riding focusing on harmony, balance, and the art of horsemanship developed in Europe.

Long-distance riding over varied terrain, emphasizing stamina and the horse’s ability to manage pace and condition.

Performing acrobatic stunts on a moving horse, like standing or flipping, showcasing the rider’s agility and the horse’s training. It’s often seen in rodeos and circus acts.

A team sport combining elements of polo and basketball, where players use a ball with handles and aim to score goals.

Focuses on horses trained to perform specific gaits beyond the basic walk, trot, and canter, such as the pace or tölt.

Includes adaptive dressage, para-dressage, and therapeutic riding programs designed to be accessible and supportive for riders with disabilities.

A discipline combining dressage, obstacles, and cattle work, showcasing a horse’s versatility in handling different tasks.

An organization focusing on teaching young riders various aspects of riding and horsemanship, including different disciplines and skills.