A study led by Manuela Kesselmann from FOM University in Germany reveals that riders’ personality traits, particularly self-esteem, empathy, and adaptability, significantly influence the horse-human relationship and horse-centred riding. The research, involving nearly 500 equestrians, found that riders with lower self-esteem tend to adopt more dominant, less horse-friendly behaviors, while those who view their horses as friends and sources of strength demonstrate more positive, empathetic interactions. Leisure riders generally have better relationships with their horses compared to competitive riders, who often experience pressure and lower self-esteem, leading to a more objectifying view of horses.

The study emphasizes that changing riders’ perspectives—seeing horses as sentient beings with needs and emotions rather than mere tools for competition—is key to improving horse welfare and training outcomes. Experts highlight that addressing riders’ nervous system responses and self-concept, beyond technical skills, is crucial for fostering deeper, more respectful horse-human partnerships. This research adds an important dimension to the ongoing discussion about horse welfare and suggests that enhancing riders’ self-awareness and empathy could be a powerful lever for positive change in equestrianism.