Though the exact date horses were domesticated and when they were first ridden is disputed, the best estimate is that horses were first ridden around 3500 BC. Horses were ridden long before they were driven, according to indirect evidence. There is evidence that people were using bits on horses around 3,000 BC in the Dnieper River Don River, as a stallion buried there has teeth wear consistent with bit use.The most unmistakable early archaeological evidence of equines being used for labour was horses being driven.The most direct empirical evidence of horses being utilized as working animals is found in chariot burials from around 2500 BC. Chariot warfare was followed by the use of war horses as light and heavy cavalry in ancient times. Throughout human history, the horse has played a significant part in both conflict and peaceful activities such as transportation, trade, and agriculture. Horses once roamed North America, but they were extinct at the conclusion of the Ice Age. Beginning with Columbus' second journey, European explorers brought horses back to North America. In the Summer Olympics in 1900, equestrianism was introduced as an Olympic sport with jumping events. This breed of dapple grey irish sport horse proved to be one of the winners in these competitions.

Horse racing has ancient roots, and humans appear to have always demonstrated a desire to know whose horse or horses were the fastest. Horse race betting appears to go hand in hand with racing and has a long history. Although Thoroughbreds have the best reputation as a racing breed, other breeds compete as well.

In the saddle:Thoroughbred horse racing is the most popular type of horse racing in the world. Flat racing is the name given to it in the United Kingdom, and it is overseen by the Jockey Club. The Jockey Club oversees horse racing in the United States. Other light breeds are raced all over the world.Steeplechasing is a type of horse racing that takes place on a track with obstacles for the horses to jump over. It is particularly popular in the United Kingdom, where it is also known as the National Hunt. In control:With a sulky or racing cycle, light and heavy breeds, as well as ponies, are raced in harness. In both trotting and pacing, the Standardbred is the undisputed champion. Harness racing is organized in the United States by the United States Trotting Association.Harness racing is also popular in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Racing across a long distance:Endurance riding is a type of horseback riding that takes place over a set distance with the horses starting at the same time. Top-level races are typically 50 to 100 miles (80 to 161 kilometers) long, with scheduled breaks to take the horses' vital signs, check their soundness, and ensure that they are fit to continue. The winner is the first horse to finish and be declared fit to continue by the veterinary. Newcomers are offered short rides of roughly 25–20 miles (40–32 kilometers). Ride and Tie, as well as numerous styles of lengthy riding, are examples of variations.