4Equestrians: A Project That Puts Riders First

In the equestrian world, most of the focus usually goes to the horse-athlete: nutrition, care, physiotherapy, osteopathy… But who looks after the rider-athlete? That’s the question that inspired 4Equestrians, an innovative project designed to recognize riders not only as enthusiasts, but as true athletes with specific physical, nutritional, and mental needs.

The team brings together five professionals with complementary skills, all connected by a shared passion for horses: Giada Morales – Pedagogue, graduate in Educational Sciences, Founder; Claudia Cavaliere Martinez – Certified Instructor, Founder; Zaira Ficara – Certified Instructor, Founder; Eleonora Tamassia – Sports Scientist, specialized in athletic training for riders; and Elisa Frassineti – Psychotherapist and Sports Psychologist.

The idea and how it started

The inspiration came from Giada Morales, who has worked for over thirty years in the field of neurodevelopment while nurturing a lifelong love for horses and dressage.

“At a certain point,” Giada recalls, “I felt the need for structured support to improve my performance and manage my energy. I consulted a nutritionist, but the meal plans I was given were too complicated and simply didn’t fit the everyday life of someone at the stables. That’s when I started searching—but unlike other sports, I couldn’t find clear protocols in equestrianism.”

Everything changed when she discovered the Italian Olympic Committee’s (CONI) nutrition plans. “I realized that at last there was a scientific framework that could also apply to us riders. But I also saw that the lack of tools wasn’t just my problem—it was something many others shared.” From this realization, 4Equestrians was created: a community of athletes, instructors, and professionals built around the idea of the rider as an athlete.

Focus areas: nutrition, body, and mind

The project addresses two key gaps in the equestrian world: the lack of rider-specific guidelines and the challenge of finding practical, real-life solutions.

“In other sports,” Giada explains, “athletes follow clear nutritional and training protocols, from beginner to professional. In equestrianism, riders often have to improvise. With 4Equestrians, we wanted to offer evidence-based guidance that is also simple and adaptable to life in the stable and at competitions.”

The process begins with a rider questionnaire and a free introductory consultation. From there, a personalized program is designed, which may include nutritional support as well as physical and mental training.

The most common challenges riders face

Many riders report recurring aches and difficulties. “Our data show,” says Giada, “that back pain is widespread, but more than that, issues like poor recovery, muscle tension, and nighttime cramps are common. These problems affect rest and therefore performance. Often they stem from nutritional deficiencies or inadequate training. We respond with targeted advice, simple recovery exercises, and personalized supplement plans.”

The mental side is equally important: “Our surveys revealed that while performance anxiety and competition stress exist, the biggest challenge riders face is staying focused. After long waits or back-to-back rounds, many struggle with concentration. This directly impacts the horse-rider connection and the quality of performance. That’s why we dedicate so much to exercises for focus and energy management.”

Looking ahead

Though still a young project, 4Equestrians has a clear mission. “Our aim,” Giada concludes, “is to provide riders with concrete, personalized solutions—scientifically sound, but easy to apply in real life. We want riders at every level, from amateur to professional, to improve without having to choose between theory and practicality. Too often, riders handle their preparation on their own, relying on trial and error. We want to bridge that gap, offering structured, professional support that recognizes the rider as an athlete—and ultimately helps build stronger, more mindful partnerships with their horses.”

Valentina Sozzi

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