Explore the physical and mental benefits of horse riding

Mastering horse riding, also known as 'equestrianism,' requires time and effort but yields numerous physical and psychological benefits to practitioners of all ages. Below are some of its key advantages: 

Promoting physical fitness and body health

Horse riding significantly enhances physical fitness by strengthening core muscles, including the abdomen, back, and thighs. It also improves flexibility and muscle coordination, as riders must continuously adjust their sitting postures to match the movements of the horse. 

This sport also increases calorie burning, helping to maintain a healthy and fit body. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), riding a horse for 45 minutes at varying speeds, ranging from trotting to galloping, can burn up to 200 calories. Additionally, it has a significant impact on decreasing blood pressure and enhancing heart health and blood circulation in general.

Improving mood and mental health

Horse riding requires complete focus on the present moment to guide the horse, which serves as a distraction from negative thoughts. It provides an opportunity to escape daily life pressures and enjoy moments of peace and tranquillity. Moreover, the rhythmic movement of the horse fosters relaxation and significantly reduces cortisol levels, the stress hormone, alleviating anxiety and stress.

Spending extended periods in nature while riding further enhances one’s mood by releasing endorphins, which interact with brain receptors to create feelings of happiness and liveliness. A 2020 study conducted by Walden University found that equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) is more effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to traditional psychotherapy.

Enhancing focus, balance skills, and coordination

Horse riding significantly improves concentration, as it requires precise awareness and attention to the horse’s movements and behaviours. This enhanced concentration can positively impact different aspects of the rider’s life, such as studies, work, and personal relationships. Horse riding also strengthens the brain’s eye-hand coordination, as the rider must maintain full control and balance during the ride.

Boosting self-confidence and feelings of achievement

Horse riding enhances traits associated with a strong personality, such as courage, self-confidence, and self-respect. Riding large animals like horses requires skill and bravery,  boosting morale and self-confidence. Setting clear goals and achieving them in this sport enhances the rider's self-respect, leadership abilities, and decisiveness.

Furthermore, daily training presents numerous challenges that require quick solutions, enhancing riders’ decision-making skills. Overcoming these challenges gives a profound sense of accomplishment and builds the courage to face future challenges and fears, regardless of their nature. Additionally, taking responsibility is another strong personality trait that horse owners must possess. Caring for a horse requires significant commitment and effort, including feeding it, cleaning its stable, attending to its health, and other responsibilities.

Enhancing communication and social skills

This sport offers wonderful opportunities for communication and cooperation, whether with trainers or fellow horse-riding enthusiasts. It also paves the way for lasting friendships based on shared interests and passions. Moreover, participating in equestrian competitions enhances personal motivation, communication flexibility, teamwork skills, a sense of shared responsibility, and team spirit.

In conclusion, horse riding is more than a pastime; it is a distinctive hobby that promotes a sense of freedom, mobility, competitiveness, and personal strength while developing mental skills. It requires serious training and the ability to handle challenges, such as managing stubborn and slow-to-train horses and addressing health issues horses may face. Moreover, maintaining the cleanliness of the horse and its stable is also crucial, requiring time and effort to keep them in proper condition.

References 

[1] Cha.horse, The Top 15 Benefits of Horseback Riding
[2] canadianpasofinosociety.com, SADDLE UP: THE PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SOCIAL BENEFITS OF HORSEBACK RIDING
[3] psychologytoday.com, The Therapeutic Value of Horses
[4] heart.org, 6 Health Benefits of Horses
[5] thesouthdakotacowgirl.com, 5 MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF HORSEBACK RIDING