Most people who see riders on horseback don’t get what all the fuss is about. Buts ask the rider and they will tell you there is nothing quite like being on the back of a 1200-pound animal. There are plenty of benefits of horseback riding. Let’s consider some of them below.
- Building character
Before you start horseback riding, you need to learn to understand the animal. You also will find yourself having to take care of the horse. This builds important character traits that you can find useful in your everyday life such as discipline, empathy and responsibility.
- Become fitter
So, horse back riding is not the same as going to the gym. However, it is considered moderate level exercise. You still get to burn calories and this goes a long way towards improving your overall health especially when done for at least an hour for 3 times a week.
- Improve your reflexes and problem-solving skills
To be in control of your horse, you need to be able to tell it to go where you want. Riding the wrong way can result in injuries to both you and the horse. This is why you need to be in a position to make quick decisions at the time it is required in order to stay safe.
- Improved moods
Ask almost any rider and they will tell you they feel elated after horseback riding. The body released feel good hormones called endorphins that stimulate that feeling of joy, happiness and sense of accomplishment.
- Gain a friend
it is not uncommon to hear horse owners refer to their animals as their best friend. Horses by their nature are herd animals which means they like to be around their own kind. Humans are the same. This is why building a relationship with a horse comes naturally to riders.
- Ideal for competitive people
If you are a horse back rider and are competitive in nature, there are plenty of sports that can allow you to do this such as polo, races or vaulting. You gain satisfaction and a feeling of accomplishment when taking part in such sports.
- Gain a different perspective
Seeing the world from the back of the horse is great fun plus you get to go to places you would never have walked to. This provides you with different experiences which combine to make your life that much richer.
