What is endurance?

Throughout the world, equestrian endurance celebrates the harmony between rider and horse. This ancient discipline combines performance and respect for the animal. Regulated by the Fédération Équestre Internationale, this sport tests the rider's ability to cover long distances at varying speeds.

What is equestrian endurance?

Stemming from a thousand-year-old tradition, endurance riding is more than just an outdoor equestrian sport, practiced alone or as part of a team. It's a unique blend of performance and symbiosis between rider and horse.

Definition of equestrian endurance

Equestrian endurance is an outdoor sporting discipline. Riders and their horses or ponies cover long distances (20 to 160 km) at various speeds, within a given time. The aim is to finish the long-distance race in top physical condition. The emphasis is on the horse's health and well-being, effort management and race strategy.

The origins of equestrian endurance

Equestrian endurance stems from the need for rapid communication and the movement of military cavalry. As far back as antiquity, it was crucial throughout the world for the transmission of messages over long distances, particularly in Asia. The famous Pony Express in 19th-century America is a prime example.

This practical need gradually evolved into a competitive sport. The discipline arrived in France in the 1970s and grew in popularity in the 1990s. Today, endurance combines historical tradition with modern sporting requirements, focusing on distance, speed and equine well-being.

The principles of equestrian endurance

This equestrian discipline is based on the ability of horse and rider to maintain a sustained effort over long distances. Respect for speed and cardiac regularity is essential, as is the health and well-being of the horse.

This type of riding requires a thorough knowledge of nutrition, ethological horsemanship and veterinary care. The stable must provide an environment conducive to thorough preparation.

Equestrian endurance criteria

Equestrian endurance is based on three essential criteria that determine the performance of both rider and horse.

Distance

Distance is the major challenge in equestrian endurance. Races cover a range of distances from 20 to 160 kilometers in international competitions. Races take place on challenging courses such as mountain roads, flat terrain and forest trails. Each distance requires a specific strategy to preserve the energy of rider and horse throughout the race.

Time

The time factor is crucial in endurance racing. Riders must maintain an average speed, free or imposed, throughout the race. Mastering time requires meticulous management of the horse's pace. A speed of between 12 and 19 km/h must be maintained, while respecting pre-set speeds and the horse's heart rate. This ensures that the race is completed on time, without prematurely exhausting the horse.

Competition level

Events are divided into three competition divisions: Club, Preparatory and Amateur. Each division is structured into distance levels, with two categories of events: limited-speed and free-speed.

In the Amateur division, distances range from 20 to 160 km. A rider-horse pair must first qualify in one tier before moving on to the next. This progression ensures that both rider and mount gradually develop their endurance and skills.

Preparing for an equestrian endurance race

Preparation begins with a meticulous equipment check, with the support of the following team. The horse's equipment and the rider's safety gear must be in perfect condition and suitable for the competition. The work of the support team is essential. This official accompaniment guarantees the comfort and safety of the rider-horse duo throughout the race.

Choice of mount and rider

The choice of mount is based on an assessment of the horse's aptitudes and temperament. Certain breeds of horse and pony are highly prized. In particular, the Arabian thoroughbred, with its endurance and ability to perform well over long distances.

Rider selection is based on experience and connection with the horse. This association requires mutual understanding and shared preparation, essential for a successful symbiosis in competition.

Horse care and training

A specific diet and regular veterinary care are necessary. Training must be progressive. It can include equestrian activities at different gaits, such as trail riding. Work includes various exercises with qualified instructors to strengthen the horse's stamina and recovery. This prepares the horse for the intense, prolonged effort of racing.

Advice for the rider-horse pair

Communication and mutual understanding are essential. The rider must adapt his posture and signals in response to the horse's reactions. Mutual trust and management of the horse's emotions are essential. In particular, to maintain optimum performance in complete safety and harmony during the race. 

Equestrian endurance events

Endurance offers a variety of events, suitable for all levels, from Galop 2 upwards. Races range from short distances to multi-day events.

Different distances and levels of competition

Event itineraries follow trails of varying distances. These range from 3 km for beginners in the Club division, to 160 km or more in the Amateur division. Races are graded according to stars, symbolizing increasing levels of difficulty: one star for the shortest distances, up to four stars for 160 km races.

Veterinary checks during the race

Veterinary checks are an integral part of endurance competitions. They guarantee the well-being and health of the participating horses. Compulsory stops are made at strategic points along the course. Here, vets check the horse's heart rate, locomotion and general condition. The support team also provides rapid assistance and care when needed. Only healthy horses that meet certain standards are allowed to continue in the race.

Speed and ranking of contestants

Equestrian endurance competitions are divided into limited-speed and free-speed events.

Limited-speed races impose a specific speed, ranging from 10 to 15 km/h over distances of 20 to 60 km. They are open all year round to both beginners and experienced riders. The ranking is based on the horse's speed and heart rate at the finish line, emphasizing effort management.

Free-speed events, from 90 to 160 km, focus on speed. Experienced riders and their mounts adapt their gaits, especially the sustained trot, without putting their foot down. These equestrian events include rigorous veterinary checkpoints to ensure the horse's health throughout the race.

Equestrian endurance for amateurs and professionals

The distinction between amateurs and professionals is a question of skill, but also of commitment. For the amateur, it's a convivial pastime. It's an opportunity to connect with their horse and compete against other riders. The professional rider, on the other hand, lives for the sport. He devotes his life to training and competitions.

Endurance clubs and riding schools

Specialized equestrian centers provide adapted infrastructures and riding lessons or advanced training courses for all levels. Many stables welcome experienced riders all year round to teach endurance riding with recognized instructors. Addressing such an accredited competition stable ensures that riders have the courses and training they need to perform at their best.

These different stables have dedicated tracks, equipment and specialized qualified instructors. Together, these structures support both experienced and novice riders in their progress and preparation for competitions. They also encourage exchanges between enthusiasts who share their knowledge and experience.

National and international competitions

In France, national competitions are open to a wide public and generally take place over distances ranging from 80 to 160 kilometers. International equestrian events are regulated by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI). These high-level championships, where riders represent their countries, attract worldwide attention. In particular, riders aim for the FEI World Championship, an annual event that crowns outstanding talent in equestrian endurance.

Qualifying and winning prizes

Taking part in competitions often requires specific qualifications defined by the organizers. These criteria include previous performance, technical skills or equine health criteria. Rewards range from symbolic to cash prizes, trophies and material endowments. The very best win major prizes and international recognition at prestigious competitions.

The future of endurance riding

Supported by the Fédération Française d'Équitation (FFE), equestrian endurance is evolving. This equestrian practice combines the best of tradition and modern equestrian activities, always with respect for the horse's passion.

Technological innovations in endurance riding

Equestrian endurance is increasingly incorporating advanced technologies such as heart rate sensors, performance monitors and GPS tracking tools. In addition, equipment has evolved, such as ergonomic saddles and lightweight harness materials. These devices improve comfort, safety, training efficiency and the competition experience.

The evolution of competition rules and criteria

The rules and competition criteria of this equestrian sport have evolved to ensure the safety and well-being of horses. They also improve fairness and competitiveness. These changes include revisions to the distances and speeds imposed. They also include stricter standards for veterinary checks and more precise qualification criteria for riders and mounts. The emphasis is on the sustainability of the sport and the protection of participants.

The importance of  horse health and welfare

The health and welfare of horses remains an absolute priority. Sporting organizations, equestrian federations and participants are taking steps to ensure ethical and responsible practices. This includes increased monitoring of breeding, training and competition conditions. Guidelines are also in place to prevent overloading and excessive tiredness of horses. The emphasis on the physical and mental health of the animals underlines the importance of a respectful and ethical approach to the sport.

Equestrian endurance is a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation. More than in trail riding, endurance riding demands a perfect symbiosis between the horse and rider. This equestrian sport, where respect for the animal is as important as performance, continues to evolve. This promises an exciting future for amateurs and professionals alike.