What is Equestrian?

Equestrian is the encompassing term for all activity involving the horse or other equus species (eg. mule). The term equestrian describes both recreational and competitive riders, handlers, and drivers. Equestrian includes all disciplines or activities participated in whilst mounted on the horse, as well as unmounted disciplines or activities. It is the partnership of horse and human and, in some disciplines, horse to horse.

Mounted equestrian disciplines are commonly divided into two categories: English disciplines and Western disciplines. As a general rule of thumb, the classification of English or Western describes the type of “tack” (equipment) used on the horse. The type of tack used is the most easily distinguishable factor in the division of English and Western disciplines. Other disciplines that do not fall under the categories of English or Western include driving, halter (in-hand), and vaulting (gymnastics on horseback).

Certain breeds of the horse are often favored and are more suitable for either English, Western, or other disciplines, and many breeds have been developed with discipline-specific purpose in mind. However, as merit to the versatility of the horse, many if not most breeds are able to participate successfully in a wide variety of disciplines; English, Western and otherwise.

Some of the most common equestrian disciplines under English, Western, and Other categories are described in the Types of Disciplines heading to the left.

Brand new to horses and equestrianism?  See the headings to the left for information on how to get started.

Further questions can be directed to the MHC office at (204) 925-5718 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it