New Special Issue Call for Papers - Equestrian Health, Wellbeing, and Performance – Human Factors in Equestrianism (HFE)

2026-08-12

The International Journal of Equine Science (IJES) is pleased to announce the launch of a new Special Issue titled "Equestrian Health, Wellbeing, and Performance – Human Factors in Equestrianism (HFE)."

Led by Lead Editor Lorna Cameron (Hartpury University, UK) alongside Associate Editors Dr. Emma Davies and Dr. Victoria Lewis (Hartpury University, UK), and Guest Editors Dr. Agnes Olivier (Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Équitation (IFCE), France) and Dr. Russell Best (Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec), New Zealand).

This Special Issue explores how human health, skills, and decision-making shape equine interactions, aiming to advance equestrian well-being and horse welfare through diverse research.

About the Special Issue

Equestrian research often focuses on the horse, neglecting human factors. However, rider health, skills, and well-being directly impact equine welfare and performance. This Special Issue provides an open-access platform exploring human factors to help equestrians better support their horses.

Potential Topics for Submission

  • Factors influencing equine management decision-making
  • Equestrian injury, recovery, and fitness
  • Equestrian skills development
  • Rider performance
  • Equestrian nutrition
  • Equestrian participation
  • Equestrian coaching
  • Para-equestrian sport
  • Human behaviour change for optimal equine welfare
  • Equestrian education
  • Barriers to equestrian participation
  • Equestrian workforce welfare and well-being
  • Equestrian athlete development
  • Equestrian cultures
  • Sustainable equestrian management

Key Information & Submission Timeline

  • Publication Model: Articles will be published on a rolling basis upon acceptance, starting January 2027.

  • Submission Deadline: 31 January 2027

  • Average Time to First Editorial Decision: 6–8 weeks

Researchers, equine scientists, veterinarians, and welfare practitioners are invited to submit their manuscripts directly through our online submission system.

Quick Links

For editorial inquiries regarding the Special Issue, please contact the editorial office at ijes@rasayely-journals.com.