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Judgment and Criticism in the Equestrian World: A Call for Perspective and Grace

For many of us, horses are not merely a hobby but a lifelong passion—one that binds us together and shapes our experiences in profound ways. However, a rather troubling trend has emerged within the equestrian community: an incessant, often unwarranted critique of others, particularly of amateur riders. Small imperfections are magnified beyond reason, and in this fervor for judgment, the broader perspective is lost. As equestrians, we bear an undeniable responsibility towards our horses—one that extends beyond mere technical refinement to fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding within our community.


It is an indisputable truth that mistakes are an inherent part of the learning process. Anyone who has ever worked with horses knows that there are moments when one’s seat is less than perfect, when aids lack precision, or when coordination falls short. As amateur riders, we are not expected to achieve the finesse of professionals—nor should we be. Yet, increasingly, these minor imperfections become fodder for public scrutiny. A slightly unsteady leg, a posture not quite in line with the textbook ideal, or an occasional lapse in seamless communication with the horse—such things, while worthy of personal improvement, should not become grounds for merciless critique. One must ask: at what cost do we persist in this culture of relentless judgment? If we continually chip away at one another’s confidence, do we not, in the end, rob ourselves and others of the joy that first led us to this pursuit?


We must reflect on whether we are making the equestrian world unnecessarily difficult for ourselves by relentlessly pointing out the faults of others. Each of us is on a unique journey, with different experiences, challenges, and goals. No one rides perfectly at all times, and when we exist in a space where we feel compelled to constantly justify our imperfections, the delight and fulfillment of riding begin to erode. Horses are not mechanical instruments that respond with robotic precision; they are sentient beings with their own needs, sensitivities, and capacities. Their training and education require patience, time, and compassion—qualities that should equally extend to how we treat our fellow riders.


That said, there is an ethical dimension to our role as equestrians that must never be ignored. Horses have never volunteered to become our riding partners; they have been shaped into this role by human hands. We are therefore morally obligated to ensure that what we ask of them is in their best interest. This is a fundamental question that should accompany every aspect of our riding. Our duty to our horses is not to attain perfection but to strive to be the best riders and caretakers we can be. This endeavor must extend beyond technical skill to include empathy, attentiveness, and a willingness to improve—not for the sake of optics or approval, but out of genuine respect for the animals entrusted to us.


When we speak of doing our best, it is crucial to acknowledge that "our best" will never be flawless, nor does it need to be. What matters is the effort to improve while ensuring that our shortcomings do not inflict harm upon our horses. Riding is not a pursuit of absolute excellence but a continuous process—one that demands perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of our equine partners. Nonetheless, where true welfare concerns arise, they must not be ignored. When mistakes compromise a horse’s health or comfort, it is our duty to address them—yet the manner in which we do so matters immensely. Constructive, informed, and empathetic dialogue fosters progress, whereas public shaming and hypercritical nitpicking serve only to divide and discourage.


It is entirely justifiable to call out serious welfare issues and harmful practices. Those in the public eye, who wield influence over the industry, must be held accountable when their methods undermine the fundamental principles of humane horsemanship. Whether or not one competes at the highest levels is irrelevant in this context—poor and abusive training methods should always be confronted. However, it is imperative to distinguish between genuine welfare concerns and the inconsequential flaws that naturally occur in any equestrian’s practice. A rider leaning slightly too far forward, for instance, may momentarily affect their horse’s balance, but such an imperfection is by no means equivalent to training techniques that cause physical or psychological distress. We must be discerning in our judgment, lest we create an endless spiral in which only an unattainable ideal of riding is deemed acceptable.


This leads us to a fundamental paradox: if we insist on an unrealistic standard of perfection, who among us is truly fit to ride? If minor mistakes become grounds for public rebuke, then we are all, by this measure, unworthy of the saddle. A culture of relentless criticism, detached from perspective and nuance, does not elevate the standard of riding—it stifles it. When people fear reproach for every misstep, they may become hesitant to share their journey, to seek guidance, or even to ride at all. In fostering a more thoughtful, balanced approach, we can create a space where progress is encouraged without diminishing the love for the sport that unites us all.


Those who insist that perfection is the only acceptable benchmark should first ask themselves whether they embody such ideals at all times. The reality is, none of us do. Improvement is a lifelong pursuit, and while constructive critique plays a role in that journey, it should never come at the expense of enthusiasm, confidence, or community. Ultimately, the equestrian world should not be defined by a culture of scrutiny but by one of mutual support and respect. If we extend more empathy to one another, we will all—most importantly, our horses—be better for it. After all, the essence of riding is not found in the pursuit of an impossible standard, but in the deep, abiding connection we forge with these remarkable animals.

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Evolved from its origins as a blog, Harriet Jensen has become a premier equestrian magazine. Our publication is dedicated to enriching the equestrian lifestyle, with a focus on equine welfare and species-specific care. We provide a platform where luxury and practicality converge seamlessly for both horse and rider. Gain valuable insights from esteemed horsemen through articles tailored to enhance your equestrian journey.

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