7 Ways Horseback Riding Improves Your Life

If you have been around horses for any length of time, you don’t need a list to tell you what you already know: horses are amazing creatures that just feed your soul. Additionally, there are so many benefits of horseback riding. Perhaps you can show this list to your non-equestrian friends that just don’t understand why you love the smell of a barn, the feel of leather and the touch of a horse. So, without further ado, here some ways horseback riding improves your life:

The Benefits Of Horseback Riding

#1 – Exercise

I remember in high school my friends would want to come over and ride. I would warn them they would be sore the next day and I always got, “No, I play sports,” for a response. I would just laugh and take them for a ride. The next day, they could barely walk. Horseback riding uses muscles you didn’t even know you had, and you get to enjoy nature while working out – what could be better! Trust us, all that exercise you get from horseback riding is one of the greatest benefits.

#2 – Stress Relief

There is nothing like stepping into a barn after a bad day to make all your problems just disappear. A study from Washington State University concluded that kids who worked with horses had a significant reduction in stress. We are sure the same is true for adults!

#3 – Friendships

Friendships made at the barn are some of the strongest friendships you will ever have. If you ride horses, you may never be lonely. Friendship is one of the greatest benefits of horseback riding.

#4 – Horse-Assisted Therapy

For many with disabilities, horses have improved their lives in too many ways to list. From allowing a wheelchair-bound child to experience walking and even running with four legs, to studies that are proving riding can reduce spasticity in the limbs of people with cerebral palsy, horses can definitely improve our lives medically.

#5 – Time Outside

It used to be that kids and parents spent a great deal time outside. But thanks to TV, smartphones, computers, and tablets, we all spend a bit too much time indoors. Having a horse encourages you to spend time outside and be active, which definitely improves your life! All that fresh air and experiencing nature makes for another great benefit of horseback riding. 

#6 – Teaches Respect

Horses are a great way to teach children respect for nature and other beings. Bonus: it can be a great way to teach them a work ethic if your barn allows your kids to muck out stalls in exchange for lesson privileges.

#7 – Improves Posture

How many times did your riding instructor tell you “shoulders back,"  "sit straight," or "don’t slouch”? Riding requires good balance and a correct posture, both of which are very good out of the saddle, as well.

Are there any other benefits of horseback riding that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!