A Narrative Review of Physical Fitness and Injury Research in Equestrians

Authors

Jennifer Austin, Rocky Mountain University of Health ProfessionsFollow
Erin Schneider-Gaal, Rocky Mountain University of Health ProfessionsFollow

Abstract

Purpose: This narrative review aims to summarize the body of literature surrounding the topic to best understand performance demands of equestrians, to inform future training recommendations, and to identify areas of research that can optimize the health and performance of equestrians

Study Design: Narrative Systematic review

Methods: Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). No limitations were placed on the dates of the searches with the final search completed in January 2024. Keywords were equestrian, strength, training, aerobic training, posture, injury, injury rates, and performance requirements. Forward and backward citation searches were completed on all publications found. The focus was placed on performance demands, injury prevalence, and strength and conditioning research

Results: Conflicting evidence is shown in the literature regarding the athleticism of equestrian riders. Regardless of this conflict, the literature demonstrates the athletic requirement of a rider to perform on a horse skillfully and safely to include aerobic capacity, strength, balance, and motor control.

Conclusion: Equestrian sports require a level of athleticism as demonstrated in the literature; however, equestrian riders are demonstrated to have lower than the recommended levels of fitness. Few studies investigate strength and conditioning practices within equestrian sports despite its popularity and athletic requirement. Equestrian athletes could benefit from strength and conditioning practices to improve performance and reduce catastrophic injuries. Further research should investigate these strength and conditioning practices as it relates to performance improvement and injury reduction in equestrian sports.

Author Bio(s)

Jennifer Austin, PhD, ATC, is the Program Director of the Doctor of Philosophy in the Health Sciences (PhD) program. Dr. Austin is a licensed athletic trainer with extensive experience in collegiate athletics as well as over 20 years of experience as an educator.

Erin Schneider-Gaal, MS, ATC, CSCS is an athletic trainer with the Airforce Academy. She has over 14 years experience as an athletic trainer, and is working to complete her PhD in Health Sciences.

Recommended Citation

Austin J, Schneider-Gaal E. A Narrative Review of Physical Fitness and Injury Research in Equestrians. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2025 Apr 15;23(2), Article 22.