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From the outside, horseback riding may look like just sitting and that all a rider has to do is give the horse some simple instructions like go, whoa, and turn.  In carrying the rider the horse is doing all the work. Right?...Wrong!  There is far more to horseback riding than the casual observer might expect.  And, there are benefits beyond simple enjoyment; physically, mentally and emotionally. 

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• PHYSICAL

          Riding develops balance and coordination.  The movements required to cue a horse require body awareness.  Riding also uses many muscles. Most importantly the leg, abdominal, shoulder and back muscles.  Riding does not depend on strength alone, but strong flexible muscles, particularly the gracilis muscle become sore, but the muscle will quickly become stretched and strengthened.  It’s the groin muscle area between your thighs, the muscles that keep you on your horse.  

Riding a horse at a walk stimulates the internal organs just as walking on foot does.  This aids in liver function and digestion. This makes riding a great therapy option for those in wheelchairs. According to the Body for Life for Women, by Dr. Pamela Peeke, General horseback riding accounts for 5 calories per minute for a 150 lb. woman.  Increase the speed and distance you ride and you’ll increase the intensity of your work out and burn more calories.  Calculate how many calories you burned riding or caring for your horse with About.com Calorie Count Calculators. 

          Horseback riding is a sport that people of any age can participate in. As many people approach their middle years they may finally have the time and resources to realize their dreams of riding or owning a horse.  With proper instruction and guidance there is no reason why people in their forties and beyond can’t learn to ride or drive.  Lots of seniors have ridden or driven into their golden years with their favorite equine companion.  

         As you groom, clean stalls, carry saddles, equipment or bales of hay, you are doing weight bearing exercise that helps maintain bone mass.  Although riding, grooming and mucking out stalls is good exercise, many riders who wish to compete at advanced levels, find it beneficial to lift weights and do core strength training such as yoga and pilates.  

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• MENTAL

          At first you may feel that just learning to stay on and steer the horse is a challenge.  When that becomes easy, many more learning opportunities present themselves.  As you progress with riding you will always have questions and problems. Even the most experienced equestrian would admit there is always something new to learn.  

          Research has shown that lifelong learning may prevent memory loss.  Just like your muscles, your brain needs exercise too.  Riding can provide many opportunities for success.  Whether you learn to post the trot or receive high ribbons in horse shows, you’ll feel good about what you are doing.

 

• EMOTIONAL/SPIRITUAL

          For many a horse is a connection with nature whether they ride in the ring or down the trail. Many people find companionship and solace while working with their horse.  Although riding can present it’s frustrations and challenges, most people find it a relaxing pastime. The camaraderie of people who enjoy similar activities is also appealing. It’s fun to get together with friends for a lesson, team endeavor, such as horse shows, mounted games or drill riding, or just to go on a trail ride.

          If you crave solitude……… riding or driving can provide that as well.  Many horse owners feel their horse is somewhat of a kindred spirit in tune with their own feelings and emotions; more so than any human companion.  In times of stress a horse can be a quiet friend who is without judgment or guile. 

 

Created by, Anonymous