A female horse rider is called an equestrian or cowgirl. Riding horses started in the Bronze Age for spiritual reasons. Today, equestrians ride horses for fun, sport, and work. Most leisure riders are women. But most famous professional riders are men. Riding uses different muscles so it takes time to learn. Horses need bonding and training with riders.
Common Equestrian Sports
- Dressage
- Show jumping
- Cross-country
These sports are also included in the Olympics.
Beginner Horse Riders
A beginner horse-rider is called a novice. Novice riders have basic experience with horses. They can catch, halter, groom, saddle, and bridle a horse by themselves. They can mount and ride off unassisted.
What is a Female Horse Called?
A female horse is known as:
- A filly when under the age of five or has not had a baby.
- A mare when it’s over five years old or after having a baby.
Horse Gender and Age Terms:
- Male baby horses are called colts.
- Female baby horses are called fillies.
- At one year old, they are referred to as yearlings.
- A female horse over four years old is a mare.
- Male foals are colts.
- An uncastrated male horse over four years old is a stallion.
- Female horses used for breeding are broodmares.
Female Horse Characteristics:
- Typically start reproducing at three years old and can continue until age 20.
- They may undergo physical exams and breeding soundness exams before breeding.
- An adult mare can be used for riding, racing, breeding, or kept as pets.