5 reasons to try horse riding
Wondering whether a horse ride would be a good idea? Well, don't ask yourself any more - you should at least give it a try! And if that argument isn't enough for you, we've put together a list of the top 5 reasons why you should go horse riding in the near future.
Are you a nature lover, animal lover and looking for an accessible outdoor activity? Then horse riding is likely to become your next favourite activity. Thanks to this sport, which can be both relaxing and sensational, you can discover magnificent landscapes with your mount anywhere in the world.
Equestrian tourism is becoming increasingly popular, with many destinations offering visitors the chance to explore their surroundings on horseback and experience a pleasant ride at nature's pace. Horse-riding gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the landscape and culture of your destination.
1. An activity accessible to all
The first reason to go for a horse ride is quite simply that it's an activity that's accessible to everyone and perfect for a first discovery of horse riding. Indeed, it offers beginners the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the equestrian world in a fun and simple way. The rides are supervised by professionals and participants are properly equipped to enjoy the activity in complete safety. What's more, the instructor remains available during the ride to answer riders' questions and offer advice.
People of all ages and abilities can take part in a horse ride. There are options to suit everyone: short rides, lasting a few hours or even several days for more adventure! As a family or with friends, horse riding is also a great way to share a convivial moment in the great outdoors. Even the youngest children can try pony trekking from the age of 2.
2. Physical benefits
Horse riding is the perfect way to exercise. This sport will improve your balance and posture, as once you're in the saddle you'll need to stand up straight and follow the horse's movements. Riding is a moderate activity, but it will still help you strengthen your muscles. Your thighs and calves will work to maintain your balance, your abdominal muscles will work to stay stable and follow the horse's movements, and your back and arms will work to steer and control the horse. In short, your whole body will be working.
Depending on the length of your ride, it can also be an opportunity to work on your cardio and endurance. The longer it is, the more you can work on this aspect! Of course, a walk at a walk will be quite leisurely, but if you trot and gallop, you'll soon realise the sporting aspect of this activity.
3. Mental benefits
Going for a horse ride is an ideal way to recharge your batteries. First of all, paying attention to your horse and your surroundings allows you to focus on the present and immerse yourself fully in the activity. Thanks to this mindfulness, you'll be able to enjoy the calm of nature and the connection with your horse, two things that do a lot to relieve the stresses of everyday life. During a horse ride, negative thoughts and emotional overload disappear!
The emotional bond between rider and horse also provides a source of affection that is very good for morale. One example that illustrates this very well is the use of horses in therapy. As these animals are sensitive to human emotions and have a calming effect, they help many patients gain self-confidence or develop patience and the ability to communicate.
4. A moment of complicity with the horse
Horse riding is a real opportunity to share a real moment of complicity with your horse. During the ride, the rider is attentive to his horse and shares a soothing moment with him. Each new moment spent with the horse will enable you to get to know it better. Together, you'll be able to create a bond of trust based on all these shared moments.
Before and after the ride, you'll need to groom your horse. This moment of care is an excellent way of strengthening your bond with your horse. It's also an opportunity to check the horse for any injuries. After your ride, you can also spend a little more time with your horse by taking him out to graze, for example. In short, being close to your horse is not just about going for a ride - it's a whole experience!
5. Exploring sublime landscapes
Another interesting aspect of horse riding is that it allows you to discover a place in an unusual way. The activity is similar to walking, but offers a completely different experience, in contact with the animal and at its pace. Equestrian tourism has developed along these lines, offering an unusual way to visit a place. With your mount, you can travel some of the most beautiful hiking routes and discover breathtaking natural sites. For example, in the photo above, riders explore the Corsican mountains on horseback near Corte.
Depending on your destination, a horse ride can even be an opportunity to discover an aspect of the local culture. In Iceland, for example, you can go for a horse ride with an Icelandic horse, known for its resistance to the polar climate and its links with the colonisation of the island. You can go for a horse ride on a black sand beach and enjoy a typically Icelandic experience in landscapes that are unique to this volcanic island! Wherever you go, horse riding is a great way to explore the most beautiful places in the world, at a walk, trot or gallop!
By now all you want to do is book your first horse ride! All you have to do is take a look at our horse-riding activities around the world and find the one that's right for you, either close to home or at your next holiday destination. Trust us, the experience will probably be even more exceptional than you think!
To help you prepare for this activity as a beginner, take a look at our article listing 5 tips for a successful first ride on horseback.