Horse riding
Horse riding is great exercise for:
It's also very therapeutic - it's easy to forget about your daily worries when you're sitting on the back of a horse. The British Horse Society commissioned the University of Brighton (in partnership with Plumpton College) to research the physical health, psychological and well-being benefits of recreational horse riding in the United Kingdom. You can read the results here | ![]() "All I pay my psychiatrist is the cost of food and hay, and he’ll listen to me any day.” Author Unknown |
Horses and ponies are fun to be around, and once you’ve mastered the walk, trot and canter, there are lots of holidays and activities for you to enjoy - opening your opportunities up to a new world. Horses can go where cars can't, which means you can head into areas other tourists won't see. And they provide a great way to make new friends, horse and human
For those with disabilities or special needs, Riding for the Disabled may be of interest. They offer horse riding or carriage driving to people with disabilites, giving you the opportunity to improve your health and wellbeing, and confidence. They've been going for 40 years & aim to develop and support opportunities for achievement and therapy, while enabling opportunities for exercise and enjoyment. You can find an RDA branch near you here. They also offer holidays for RDA Group Members - a great way to enjoy a break away from being at home and having fun with like-minded people. They are always willing to hear from volunteers to help out, too. |
You can find a riding school to learn at by visiting the British Horse Society and finding one of their approved riding schools & instructors. Tips for booking a ride
| TIP: One of the great unknowns about riding horses is that you get a terrific view of other people’s gardens. These views can give you some great ideas for your own! ![]() "A canter on a horse is a cure for every ill." Benjamin Disraeli |
Horses are very emotional animals. They do unpredictable things. To progress and push back the boundaries, you will fall off. Falling off and getting back on again is a key lesson to learn in life. Be willing to come a cropper, and you’ll find a wonderful world open up to you. Take courage in both hands, find it in your heart and go outside of your comfort zone. Fall off, welcome the experience - and get back on and have another go. |