Why go horse-riding?

Horse riding is a very complete sport, ideal for animal lovers who are looking for an activity in contact with nature.

It is suitable for people of all ages, whether they are children or adults. It can be done indifferent modalities and with different levels in any season of the year.

It is accessible to the general public, a horse ride or a riding lesson is affordable and does not have a high price. It is not necessary to be the owner of the animal, nor do you have to keep it. To dedicate oneself to competition, depending on the level, it is more or less expensive.

It provides great benefits both physically, improving the body and its abilities, and psychologically, fulfilling a relaxing function and increasing self-confidence.

It can work as a therapy or as a complement to it, it is called hippotherapy or equestrian assisted therapy. It helps the rehabilitation of children, adolescents and adults at many levels: psychological, cognitive, neuromuscular and social.

Physical benefits

Increases strength and strengthens muscle tone.

It favours postural correction of the body.

Contributes to the good development of the sense of balance and favours motor coordination.

It helps to burn calories.

Increases respiratory capacity and strengthens the heart.

Psychological benefits

Helps to feel good about oneself.

Develops self-esteem and interpersonal skills.

It helps to overcome fears, to know how to manage problems and to gain confidence.

It provides disconnection and relaxation.

Tips and recommendations

Take a beginners' class to practise it without risk. The riding centres have professionals who will introduce you to the basic techniques of outdoor riding, allowing you to reach the necessary skill levels to carry out the activity according to your level and in safe conditions.

Do not ride if you suffer from chronic back pain or vertebral malformation, if you are pregnant, if you are allergic to animal hair or if you could suffer from osteoporosis.

It is essential to wear a helmet to protect yourself if you fall off the horse.

Warm up before riding: do a few movements, short trots and stretches before getting into the saddle.