Horse riding is often a great hobby for your children, but what about you?
Have you ever thought about taking up riding, but thought you were too old?
When you see the likes of Belinda Stronach, revolutionizing the industry, you can’t help but be inspired and wonder if riding is something you can do.
That is quite a common misconception, but actually, there are plenty of reasons why you should take up horse riding at any age.
Here are just a few!
Horse riding is not just for children. There are many reasons why you should start riding today whether you want to be more sociable, try something new and exciting, spend more time with animals, or get fit without having to go to the gym.”>
#1 Good for your fitness
Horse riding has been shown countless times to improve your fitness.
As a rider, you are much more involved than you may think.
There is a lot of work involved when riding and has been classified to meet the recommended level of intensity for exercise each week.
#2 Mental health
You know that exercise is beneficial for your mental health, but did you know that being around animals has also shown to have mood-boosting effects?
Time with animals is said to reduce stress while enhancing the hormone serotonin and confidence.
#3 New challenge
Going riding isn’t the easiest thing to do, especially if you have never been before.
There is a lot of skill and practice required, which makes it an exciting new challenge.
If you want to add some more thrill into your life, then hopping on a horse is the next thing to add to your list!
#4 Friendly competition
You can ride alone if you wish, but you can make it even more fun if you get involved in group riding.
There are usually different activities to try, to progress your skills and knowledge, that include a little friendly competition between adults.
It is a great way to gain more confidence, in and out of the saddle as well as meet like-minded people.
#5 Build your core
Riding is phenomenal at building core strength.
This is because riding requires a lot of balance (don’t worry if you don’t have any, you will quickly learn!) which means engaging your core muscles frequently.
You will strengthen your entire body, not just your core if you take up regular riding.
And the best part is, you don’t even realize it!
No more situps are needed when you take up riding.
#6 Community
When you take up riding, and get involved with the group lessons, you open yourself up to meet new people.
Many equestrian centers host regular events, coffee and ride mornings as well as take on volunteers.
This means you can spend time at the center, out of the saddle, and with the horses.
They usually allow you to groom and muck out the horses as well as help out around the place.
You can get involved with a great community of people and stay sociable.
Horse riding is not just for children.
There are many reasons why you should start riding today whether you want to be more sociable, try something new and exciting, spend more time with animals, or get fit without having to go to the gym.