Benefits of Returning to Horseback Riding as an Adult
Enjoying a moment after a successful ride at Royale Equestrian Centre in Ottawa.
Benefits of Returning to Horseback Riding as an Adult
Let’s face it, once you become an adult, it can be challenging to carve out time to do things that you once loved, and for many who rode as a child, horseback riding is no different. Between work and family commitments, cleaning and budgeting, it can be tough to carve out any time for yourself. But what if returning to horseback riding didn’t just benefit you? What if your going back to doing something you loved as a child could help you and your well-being, but your families?
Here are three ways in which returning to horseback riding as an adult can be beneficial for your entire family.
It Reduces Stress and Will Benefit Your Health
If you’ve had a rough week, maybe things are crazy at work, or your kid has been getting into trouble. Whatever it is, there is nothing more relaxing than a few hours of horse therapy. Think about it, you getting out of the house and into a fun environment where none of that matters in the moment, where you can just hang out with your horse and surround yourself with others who love horses just as much as you.
But don’t take my word for it, multiple studies have also shown that those suffering from depression, stroke victims, and cancer patients all respond well to animal-assisted therapy.
There’s a Competitive Side to It
Horseback riding isn’t always about leisurely trail rides. There is a competitive side to the sport if you’re interested in taking your hobby a bit further. This can be great if you are a naturally competitive person or find yourself feeling as though you’re in a rut somewhere else in your life. With horseback riding, you can develop and tend to your competitive spirit, join competitions, and challenge yourself.
Another benefit of riding competitively is that winning at equestrian competitions is not easy. The sport is extremely competitive and requires hard work and dedication. This means when you do begin placing at competitions, you will know exactly how you got there: a lot of perseverance and character. If you’re a parent, isn’t that precisely what you want to be teaching your children? Wouldn’t it be excellent for your children to see you work hard at something you love, that isn’t your job, something you’re choosing to do for fun, and succeed?
It’s Fun
There is a reason you loved horseback riding as a child - it’s fun. And don’t we all need a little more fun in our lives these days? Maybe you don’t need a reason to horseback ride other than it’s fun, it’s simple as that. The truth is, riding horses is one of the most enjoyable activities you can do; there is nothing better than feeling the wind on your face as you explore the trails.