Benefits of Horseback Riding Victoria BC

Many who are not familiar with horses might not realize that there are several health benefits from simply being around horses and horseback riding. Not only is horse riding physically beneficial, it also provides mental and even spiritual health benefits.

Riding horses has shown to help those suffering from depression. Riding horses provides good physical all-body exercise. And some argue that by riding horses, they make a connection between themselves, the horse, and the environment around them, resulting in a somewhat spiritual experience.

Physical Benefits of Horseback Riding 

Strengthened muscles

Horseback riding helps maintain strength and targets specific muscle groups such as obliques and abdominals to keep proper posture and balance on the horse’s back. Additional muscles are used such as muscles in the back, chest, inner thighs, and even the pelvis is strengthened.

One way to collect your horse or to slow it down is to sit up tall in the saddle, contract your abs, and slow your hip movement. Show jumpers and eventers use their core strength when jumping fences, mostly to sit up and steady the horse’s pace in order to meet the jump correctly.

Improved coordination

Horseback riding consists of various simultaneous movements in order for the rider to maintain proper posture while guiding the horse.

Improved posture

Since abdominal and lower back muscles are heavily used for maintaining good horseback riding posture this sport is a great method to improve the rider’s own posture for everyday life.

Mental Benefits of Horseback Riding

Relieved stress

If you want a relaxing activity due to the natural rhythm of the horse’s trot Horseback riding Victoria BC is a great choice. The gentle bouncing motion tends to improve circulation and promote relaxation in the rider. This calming physical effect is intensified even more as the rider is surrounded by nature and the outdoors while getting physical exercise; both of which have stress-relieving tendencies.

Improved mood

Horseback riding is known to positively affect the rider’s mood.  The release of the mood-enhancing hormone, serotonin, which contributes to feelings of happiness occurs while spending time with animals, such as horses.

Psychological

Riding and just being around horses have tremendous psychological benefits. Research shows that horse riding, working them on the ground, or just being around them provides a calming effect. Your breathing slows, your mind clears, you talk more softly, your motions slow down, and overall you feel more relaxed.

Grooming your horse, horseback riding, or leading them while enjoying nature all around you on a bright sunny day – all give you a sense of well-being and happiness. The happier you are, the more you are able to deal with life’s challenges.

Of course, you can use riding to set and achieve goals as another way to boost your outlook on life. Whether it’s jumping a tougher course, riding out of an arena for the first time, or cantering on the correct lead – whatever goals you set for riding can motivate you to become a better rider plus make more of a connection with your horse.

Spiritual

Spiritual experiences in life are very personal and individual. Keep in mind that a horse is a living and breathing animal, as well as you are. Some horse owners and riders connect in a special way, creating an everlasting bond with their horse. Some are able to open themselves up to create another level of connectedness with their horse say that they describe as truly spiritual. On a conscious, or unconscious level the horse and rider are able to sense each other’s thoughts and feelings.