Hartpury University has brought together leading researchers, healthcare professionals and representatives from across the equestrian sector to explore how women can be better supported throughout every stage of their riding careers.
The collaborative workshop formed part of Hartpury’s ongoing research into female rider health and wellbeing, with a focus on improving understanding, informing future research and identifying practical ways to enhance support across equestrian sport.
Thirty participants attended the event, including researchers from seven universities, Equestrian Sport Doctors, Team GB physiotherapists and sports therapists working with female riders, representatives from national governing bodies across racing and eventing, FEI officials, rider charities including the Eventing Support Trust and Riders Minds, and professional coaches from the British Horse Society (BHS) and British Dressage (BD).
The programme showcased the latest research and evidence across a wide range of topics affecting female riders, with presentations covering demographics, exercise physiology, functional movement, injury and chronic pain, mental wellbeing and equestrian culture, breast biomechanics and bra support, body protectors, menstruation, menopause, body image, pregnancy and sleep.
The sessions were delivered by experts from Hartpury University and partner organisations, including Dr Lucy Dumbell, Dr Jenni Douglas, Dr Victoria Lewis, Dr Emma Davies and Lorna Cameron, highlighting the breadth of interdisciplinary expertise contributing to the project.
Following the presentations, delegates took part in an interactive workshop centred on six real-world scenarios representing different stages of a female equestrian’s life. Working collaboratively, participants explored the physical, psychological and practical challenges riders may face, identifying opportunities to improve education, support and best practice across the equestrian industry.
The discussions generated valuable insights that will now help shape the next phase of the research, supporting the development of evidence-based recommendations to improve the health, wellbeing and performance of female riders.
Dr Victoria Lewis, Senior Lecturer in Equestrian Performance at Hartpury University and Chair of the Female Rider Health, Wellbeing and Performance Community of Practice, said: “Bringing together experts from across research, healthcare, coaching and the wider equestrian industry created a unique opportunity to share knowledge and identify where we can make the greatest impact. The workshop highlighted both the complexity of the issues facing female riders and the collective commitment across the sector to improving support through evidence-based research and collaboration.”
Hartpury University continues to play a leading role in advancing equestrian research, working alongside industry partners to ensure scientific evidence translates into meaningful improvements for riders at every level of the sport.
