How AI and Video Technology are Transforming Experiential Learning in Equestrianism

By STUART JACOB, Ride Every Stride and Jacob Entertainment

When we think of experiential learning, especially in something as hands-on as horse riding, the idea of using AI and technology may seem out of place. Horse riding has long been seen as an art of "feel"—a skill developed through intuition and experience over time. But what if technology could enhance this experience by providing a way to review and process the ride from a fresh perspective?

Today’s advances in AI and video technology are starting to influence even the most experiential forms of learning, including equestrianism. Riders can now leverage video feedback and AI-driven data to better understand the cause and effect of their actions, giving their brains multiple ways to process the information. By using video analysis, riders can move beyond just physical practice to engage different learning styles—visual, kinesthetic, and cognitive—leading to faster and more effective progress.

What is Feel in Equestrianism?

Feel in horse riding is often defined as the ability to sense and respond to a horse’s movements, emotions, and reactions in real time. It’s an instinct that riders develop over years of practice by riding, observing, and adjusting. But this kind of intuitive knowledge can be hard to grasp for new riders and is challenging to teach through traditional methods.

This is where technology is playing a pivotal role. By using video and AI, riders can break down the riding experience in a way that engages both their instinct and their cognitive understanding. Technology provides a second layer of feedback, allowing riders to see not only what they did but also how the horse responded.

Traditional Learning vs. Technology-Enhanced Feedback

In traditional equestrian training, learning happens in the moment. Riders develop feel by focusing on the horse’s feedback through physical connection and observing the horse’s body language. This immediate, in-the-moment learning is critical for developing riding skills. However, it can be difficult for riders to understand exactly how their actions—such as using the reins or shifting their weight—translate to the horse’s behavior.

This is where AI and video technology come in. By reviewing footage after the ride, riders can step back and see both their actions and the horse’s responses in a more objective way. Video feedback provides a clear view of what happened during the ride, while AI can track data on movements and positions, giving riders insight into patterns they may have missed during the session.

For example, a rider might think they’re applying the right amount of leg pressure to cue a transition, but a video review might show that the pressure was too light, causing a delay in the horse’s response. Similarly, AI-driven analysis could reveal that the rider’s seat was slightly off-balance during the transition, contributing to the problem.

The Power of Video and AI in Processing Information

One of the key advantages of using video and AI in equestrian training is that it allows riders to process information in different ways. Not everyone learns best through hands-on experience alone. Some riders are more visual learners, while others benefit from analyzing data and reflecting on their actions.

• Visual Learners: For visual learners, seeing themselves ride on video can be incredibly beneficial. It allows them to match their physical sensations with what was happening during the ride. This helps them better understand how their aids affect the horse and where they can improve.
• Data-Driven Learners: For those who thrive on numbers and analytics, AI systems can provide detailed feedback on their riding performance. These systems can track the biomechanics of both the rider and horse, providing precise measurements on things like alignment, weight distribution, and the timing of aids. This data can help riders make targeted improvements based on measurable insights.
• Reflective Learners: Some riders learn best through reflection. They benefit from reviewing their rides after the fact, thinking through what worked and what didn’t. Video and AI offer the perfect tools for this kind of learning, allowing riders to go beyond the immediate experience and engage in a deeper level of reflection.

By offering feedback in multiple forms, technology allows riders to process their learning in a way that suits their individual style. This approach leads to more well-rounded development and faster progress.

Improving Performance Through Technology-Enhanced Learning

The combination of feel, video, and AI creates a powerful feedback loop for riders. Here’s how it works:

1. Immediate Feedback: During the ride, the rider feels the horse’s movements and adjusts in real time.
2. Video Review: After the ride, the rider can watch a recording of the session to see both their actions and the horse’s responses.
3. AI Analysis: Advanced AI tools can provide data on the rider’s posture, balance, and timing, giving a more objective view of the performance.
4. Reflection and Adjustment: With the information from the video and AI, the rider can reflect on their performance, identify patterns, and make adjustments for the next ride.

This feedback loop helps riders understand not only what happened during the ride but why it happened. It’s similar to how professionals in business use data to refine strategies and improve outcomes. By analyzing both the cause and effect of their efforts, riders can take a more thoughtful and informed approach to improving their performance.

Enhancing the Rider-Trainer Relationship

Video and AI don’t just benefit the rider—they also enhance the rider-trainer relationship. Trainers can use video footage to show riders exactly where they need to improve, giving more specific and actionable feedback. AI data provides an additional layer of insight, allowing trainers to tailor their instruction to the rider’s individual needs.

By integrating technology into their training plans, riders and trainers can create a more collaborative approach to learning, leading to better communication and faster progress.

AI and video technology are transforming how we approach experiential learning in equestrianism. By providing clear, objective feedback, these tools allow riders to process information in new ways, engaging their visual, analytical, and reflective learning styles. This helps riders not only improve their skills but also deepen their connection with their horse by understanding the cause and effect of their actions.

Just as AI is reshaping industries across the world, it’s also making its mark on one of the most hands-on, experiential sports out there. By embracing this blend of technology and experience, riders can unlock new levels of performance and mastery.