So, jumping is like super thrilling! Basically, you’re on a horse, and you race against the clock to jump over a bunch of obstacles without knocking them down. It’s really about speed and precision. If you or the horse messes up and knocks a pole down, you get penalties, which is a bummer. But when you clear them all? Best feeling ever!

Dressage

Dressage, often described as ‘horse ballet,’ is a discipline where riders and horses perform a sequence of predetermined movements, known as ‘tests,’ from memory. This sport is highly artistic, focusing on the harmony and grace between the horse and rider. Judges score each movement on a scale of 0 to 10, assessing the horse’s responsiveness, balance, and suppleness, as well as the rider’s effectiveness and style.

Equestrian Vaulting

Equestrian vaulting is something like gymnastics on horseback. It sounds wild, but it’s fascinating! Competitors perform artistic and athletic movements on a cantering horse. They’re judged on their balance, stability, and the aesthetic quality of their movements, as well as the horse’s steady gait and cooperation. It’s a niche but spectacular discipline to watch.

Erm, there’s this thing called endurance riding I heard about once? You basically just ride your horse for a really, really long time over super long distances. Sounds kinda exhausting but some folks really love it. Oh, and the horse has to be fit and healthy throughout, which makes sense, right?

Eventing

Eventing is often considered the ultimate test of horse and rider. It combines three different phases: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping, over three days. Each phase tests different skills: the elegance and discipline of dressage, the bravery and endurance of cross-country, and the precision and agility of jumping. It’s thrilling but super demanding, both physically and mentally.