Find on this page

Working-life benefits of being a rider: Employers and riders on skills and traits developed in the equestrian environment

Research suggests that so-called "serious leisure" is not only valuable for the individual but can also lead to increased employability. However, there is a lack of studies on how skills and characteristics developed through horses and riding affect people's employability and how it can benefit them outside of equestrian sports.

The project aims to provide a multi-perspective view of riding and horse handling as serious leisure, the skills and traits developed through it, and how these can be beneficial in individuals' working lives. Opinions and perceptions of employers, riders, former riders, and riding instructors are studied through personal in-depth interviews, focus groups, and surveys. In total, the studies will involve 50–60 interviewees and focus group participants as well as approximately 1,500 survey respondents.

The expected results will show how valuable skills and traits among individuals are developed and strengthened through riding and in the stable environment. This in turn can lead to better opportunities for sponsorship of riding schools and perhaps also better support from public actors such as municipalities. Individuals' employability and personal branding can be improved, as can employers' recruitment processes and decisions. Identifying the benefits of horses and riding for individuals and working life, and communicating these, will highlight how horses contribute to society by developing individuals. Ultimately, this can improve the image and reputation of the horse sector in Sweden, as well as help strengthen its social license to exist.

Funder: Stiftelsen Hästforskning

Project period: January 2024 - December 2026

Publications from the project: Link to DiVA External link, opens in new window.