While our transportation options have long moved away from riding horses as our only means of travel, horseback riding remains a popular activity for many reasons. Beyond being a recreational sport and hobby, horseback riding provides many physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages and skill levels.

Studies continue to show that riding horses improves our physical and mental well-being. Let’s look at some of the benefits of horseback riding that extend beyond the thrill of the sport.

Horseback Riding Burns Calories

You may think that the horse is the only one who gets a workout during a ride, but that is not necessarily the case. Riding horses provides excellent exercise benefits for riders you may not have considered.

Riding a horse, even gently, for 30 minutes can burn up to 360 calories for the rider. This moderate form of exercise works out your core muscles, legs, arms and increases your balance, all while you enjoy the thrill of connecting with your horse.

Mental Health Benefits Of Horseback Riding

Physical exercise is not the only beneficial aspect of riding a horse. Riding horses provides time for the rider to escape daily life stressors and focus on enjoying the moment. The thrill and exhilaration of horseback riding, even at a slow and wandering pace, releases endorphins and serotonin in the brain, promoting relaxation and peacefulness.

Not only does riding horses offer a chance to enjoy the great outdoors, but its calming effect is also based on science. The constant bouncing motion of a horse’s natural trot triggers a massage effect for the rider, boosting circulation, which promotes relaxation.

Social Aspects Of Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is an activity that can be done by oneself or with a group of riders. The social aspects of riding horses benefit people of all ages and walks of life. When riding horses, you meet various people involved in the equestrian community who provide invaluable experiences as you enjoy the sport.

Riding as a social activity is also popular among groups who wish to engage in new experiences together. Taking a group of friends, your partner, or your children with you on a ride is a memorable event that many people enjoy. Social clubs also exist where riders can participate in group rides and other equestrian activities where new friendships are forged.

Horseback Riding And You

Horseback riding is an activity that anyone can pick up on and enjoy, whether a one-time guided excursion with friends and family or a lifetime of equestrian adventures; riding horses is a positive experience for those who saddle up.

Gentle and Comfortable: The snaffle bit is designed to distribute pressure evenly across your horse's mouth, reducing discomfort and encouraging relaxation. Unlike other western bits, the snaffle's simple design consists of a jointed mouthpiece and a pair of loose rings or shanks. This minimizes the potential for unnecessary pressure points, ensuring a pleasurable riding experience for your horse.