Riders are free to choose their pace during the competition, adjusting to the terrain and their mount's condition. Therefore, they must have a great knowledge of pace, knowing when to slow down or speed up during the ride, as well as a great knowledge of their horse's condition and signs of tiring. There is a maximum time allowed to complete mileage (12 hours for 50 miles and 24 hours for a 100-mile ride). Riders may choose to ride or may dismount and walk or jog with their horse without penalty. However, in FEI, they "must" be mounted when they cross the starting and finish lines. AERC riders have no requirement for being mounted at any point before, during, or after the ride.