Smart schooling

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in the equestrian world, Kim Wilson examines whether these technologies enhance rider performance, or if they undermine the instinct and feel of good horsemanship

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ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) might once have belonged to the world of science fiction, but it’s now entering our stables, arenas and even competition warm-ups. From motion-tracking cameras to advanced gait sensors, AI is becoming a quiet presence in how we school, monitor and manage our horses.

AI is part of our daily life, from the way we shop and communicate to how we navigate and work. It's widely used by athletes to track performance, prevent injury and optimise training, so it's no surprise this powerful technology has made its way into the everyday equestrian world too.

Supporters say it helps riders train more intelligently, spot subtle changes early, and make better-informed decisions in the saddle. For others, though, the growing use of data sparks concern. Could all these numbers erode the intuition, feel and instinct that underpin true horsemanship?

Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems that can learn, adapt and make decisions based on the data they receive. Unlike traditional recording tools, AI analyses patterns over time, detects changes and offers insights, whether on a rider's position, a horse's movement or the demands of a particular training programme.

In practice, it takes the form of wearable sensors, smart apps or video-analysis tools, offering a new layer of objectivity to complement traditional methods of observation and coaching.

Smart cameras are perhaps the most familiar introduction to AI for many riders. Devices such as Pivo use artificial intelligence to track horse and rider automatically around the arena, allowing riders to record sessions without a helper. Others, for example Ridesum's AI Horse Analytics, go further by allowing video uploads and then analysing specific biomechanical markers such as the horse's frame, stride length or the rider's seat and position.