jousts
knights were the ones that participated in medieval tournaments.
Tournaments
Knights participated in tournaments, which were often jousting competitions or melees where they showcased their skills in combat and horsemanship. Tournaments were important events for knights to gain fame, honor, and prestige in medieval society.
Knights participated in mock battles known as jousting tournaments. These tournaments were popular in the Middle Ages and served as a way for knights to showcase their combat skills and prowess. Jousting tournaments were also a form of entertainment for nobles and commoners alike.
whenever they wanted to
knights took part in tournaments such as jousting and wooing ladies in their time off
Early tournaments usually in northern France (Normandy) later they were held all around Europe
because its not cool
Medieval knights would often display the armor they won jousting as a sign of their prowess and victories. Some knights might also repurpose the armor for future tournaments or battles.
Medieval tournaments evolved from the military games of the Roman Empire. The first tournaments that were called by that name, which had a new, medieval, character, happened some time around 940 or 950. But it was not until about 1050 or so that the tournaments took on the form we would recognize, with knights jousting and so on. The critical issue here might have been the inventions of the stirrup and arched saddle, without which jousting is really not possible.
Knights and nobles participated in jousting tournaments to showcase their prowess as warriors. These tournaments were popular in the Middle Ages as a way to demonstrate skill in combat and horsemanship. Jousting was a major part of medieval tournaments and provided an opportunity for knights to gain honor and prestige.
When the knight was not fighting, they maintained their skills by competing in tournaments and other competitions.