Saddle Up for Wellness: 4 Benefits of Horseback Riding

I feel like getting a pony is every little kid’s dream. But, hey, horseback riding is the next best thing, right? Well, it’s close enough anyway!

If you aren’t regularly riding horses, then you might not know that it’s actually a dynamic activity that offers a host of physical and mental health benefits. Horseback riding isn’t all about leisure, it’s a serious full-body workout!

The Benefits of Horseback Riding

Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a curious beginner, there are countless reasons to consider adding horseback riding to your wellness routine.

1. Horseback Riding is a Full-Body Workout

Contrary to popular belief, horseback riding is a demanding physical activity that engages multiple muscle groups. To maintain balance and control, riders must develop core strength, flexibility, and coordination.

For starters, holding yourself upright in the saddle requires constant core activation, sculpting your abs and lower back. Your legs play a crucial role in providing stability and guiding the horse. Riding strengthens your quads, hamstrings, calves, and glutes.

While often underestimated, upper body strength is essential for maintaining posture and controlling the reins. Naturally, riding a moving animal requires exceptional balance and coordination, enhancing your overall agility. In fact, a study was done by the University of Brighton and Plumpton College that found “...trotting for 45 minutes can burn up to 600 calories.”

2. Horseback Riding Improves Cardiovascular Health

While horseback riding might not be as intense as running or swimming, it still provides a cardiovascular workout. Trotting and cantering elevate your heart rate, improving circulation and lung capacity. Regular riding can contribute to a healthier heart and lower blood pressure.

A study commissioned on behalf of the British Horse Society found that “...riding and stable management can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 35% and the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 40%.”

3. Horseback Riding Impacts Mental Wellbeing

Beyond the physical benefits, horseback riding has a profound impact on mental health. It helps greatly with stress reduction as you spend more time in nature with a gentle, powerful animal that can be incredibly therapeutic.

Riding offers a much-needed escape from daily pressures, and this goes on to improve your mood. The release of endorphins during physical activity, combined with the calming presence of the horse, can elevate your mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Plus, horseback riding requires full concentration, promoting mindfulness and improving focus. As you master the art of horseback riding, you also get a boost of self-esteem and confidence.

4. A Unique Form of Therapy

Horseback riding has been used as a therapeutic tool for individuals with physical and emotional challenges. Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) has proven effective in helping people with conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Horseback riding can help improve motor skills as it helps develop balance, coordination, and muscle strength in individuals with physical disabilities.

There are some studies that say horseback riding helps with emotional support as the bond between horse and rider can foster trust, empathy, and emotional growth. And finally, horseback riding can help with social situations as group riding activities provide opportunities for social connection and support.

How to Get Started With Horseback Riding

If you're intrigued by the idea of horseback riding for fitness and wellness, here are some tips for beginners:

• Find a reputable riding school: Look for a facility with qualified instructors and well-cared-for horses. 

• Start slowly: Begin with basic riding lessons to build a solid foundation.

• Wear appropriate attire: Comfortable clothing and proper riding boots are essential.

• Safety first: Always wear a helmet and follow your instructor's guidance.

Horseback riding is a truly unique and rewarding experience. By incorporating it into your lifestyle, you can enhance your physical fitness, improve your mental well-being, and forge a special connection with a magnificent animal.