Burnout in dual-career equestrian athletes
As part of her Masters Dissertation research, Megan explored burnout in a group of dual-career equestrian athletes. The findings suggest that 47% of dual-career equestrian athletes are experiencing burnout.
Burnout is a “multidimensional cognitive affective syndrome, characterised by emotional and physical exhaustion, reduced accomplishment, and sport devaluation” (Raedeke & Smith, 2001). , It can lead to a reduction in performance, decreased motivation, drop out from sport, anxiety, depression, social issues, and illness.
The sample composed of 20 female dual-career equestrian athletes, who worked at least 30 or more hours a week, and had their horse(s) on DIY or part-livery. Participants highlighted that they were struggling to balance demands from horse care, family life and work, with the financial burden of horse ownership adding additional stressors demands onto participants. Decreased motivation and energy, feeling overwhelmed, and difficulty sleeping are all important effects of burnout that can have long-term negative consequences.
Equestrians, and particularly dual-career equestrians, are at a high risk of developing burnout. The findings of this study suggest that a lot more needs to be done to raise awareness of the risks of burnout for this population. Participants highlighted the need for more education and awareness of burnout, to try and reduce the stigma of burnout in the industry. Participants discussed how they often didn’t seek help, due to a fear of being judged or being seen as weak.
Riders Minds, a leading equestrian mental health charity, helped source participants for this study. If you are struggling with burnout, or any other mental health issue, Riders Minds services are free, confidential and accessible 24 hours a day. Call the helpline on 0800 088 2073, or text 07480 488 103, or access the web chat through the website.
Megan would like to thank every participant who came forward and was so open about a very personal and difficult topic. The information and experiences shared were invaluable and will hopefully shape future research into burnout in the equestrian space, of which Megan hopes to contribute to throughout her further studies.