{"id":43850,"date":"2022-06-17T01:09:33","date_gmt":"2022-06-17T01:09:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=43850"},"modified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","slug":"horseback-riding-exercise","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/","title":{"rendered":"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It&#8217;s Good For You And How To Get Started"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Strengthens_Core_Muscles\" >Strengthens Core Muscles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Improves_Balance_And_Coordination\" >Improves Balance And Coordination<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Builds_Lower_Body_Strength\" >Builds Lower Body Strength<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Increases_Aerobic_Fitness\" >Increases Aerobic Fitness<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Stress_Relief\" >Stress Relief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Social_Interaction\" >Social Interaction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#How_To_Get_Started_With_Horseback_Riding\" >How To Get Started With Horseback Riding<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#The_Type_Of_Horse\" >The Type Of Horse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Your_Budget\" >Your Budget<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Your_Housing_Situation\" >Your Housing Situation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Your_Time_Commitment\" >Your Time Commitment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#What_Are_Good_Exercises_For_Horseback_Riders\" >What Are Good Exercises For Horseback Riders<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Squats\" >Squats<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Squat_Progression\" >Squat Progression<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Lunges\" >Lunges<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Lunge_Progression\" >Lunge Progression<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Step-Ups\" >Step-Ups<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Step-Up_Progression\" >Step-Up Progression<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Calf_Raises\" >Calf Raises<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Calf_Raise_Progression\" >Calf Raise Progression<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Side_Planks\" >Side Planks<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Side_Plank_Progression\" >Side Plank Progression<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#Horseback_Riding_Exercise_The_Bottom_Line\" >Horseback Riding Exercise: The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What&#8217;s a good exercise? One that incorporates aerobic fitness, strength training, core work, balance, and coordination, all into one. That, plus it must be one that you&#8217;re willing to stick with.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re reading this, it&#8217;s because you&#8217;re interested in horseback riding, have access to a horse, or are already riding.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So you have a big advantage over others who may be trying to start an exercise regimen. You&#8217;re lucky enough to have found an activity that ticks all of the boxes, and can be done year-round! <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding is not only great exercise, but it&#8217;s also enjoyable and can be done at any age. Many people take up horseback riding later in life and find that it helps them stay active and keeps them young at heart. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, what are the benefits of a horseback <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pregnancy-treadmill-workout\/\">riding exercise<\/a>?<\/span><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strengthens_Core_Muscles\"><\/span><strong>Strengthens Core Muscles<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your core muscles are a group of <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/losing-upper-back-fat\/\">muscles<\/a> that stabilize your spine and pelvis. These muscles include the abdominal muscles, the oblique muscles (on the sides of the abdomen), and the lower back muscles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strong core muscles are important for good posture, balance, and coordination.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you ride a horse, you have to use your core muscles to stay upright in the saddle and maintain your balance. As your core muscles get stronger, you&#8217;ll find it easier to stay in control of the horse, and you&#8217;ll be less likely to get tired on long rides (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2022.889605\/full#ref34\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Improves_Balance_And_Coordination\"><\/span><strong>Improves Balance And Coordination<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding is a great way to <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/exercise-during-first-trimester\/\">improve your balance<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/what-does-overhead-press-work\/\">coordination<\/a>. When you ride, you have to use your whole body to control the horse. This requires a lot of coordination and balance (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jstage.jst.go.jp\/article\/jpts\/26\/9\/26_jpts-2014-005\/_article\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4563299\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you ride more, you&#8217;ll develop better balance and coordination skills. These skills will transfer to other activities, such as sports, and can help you stay safe and prevent injuries.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Builds_Lower_Body_Strength\"><\/span><strong>Builds Lower Body Strength<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your trunk and lower body are responsible for most of the movement when you ride a horse. This means that riding can help to build lower body strength.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having strong quads, glutes, and hamstring muscles will help you stay in the saddle for long periods and make it easier to control the horse.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-43567 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207501-1024x576.png\" alt=\"horseback riding exercise\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207501.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207501-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207501.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207501.png 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increases_Aerobic_Fitness\"><\/span><strong>Increases Aerobic Fitness<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding is a great way to increase your aerobic fitness (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0737080621000939\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). When you ride at a moderate pace, your heart and lungs have to work harder to supply your muscles with oxygen. This increases your heart rate and breathing rate, and over time will improve your aerobic fitness.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/benefits-of-horseback-riding\/\">Benefits Of Horseback Riding: What Science Says About Horseback Riding<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stress_Relief\"><\/span><strong>Stress Relief<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress is an inevitable part of life, but it can have negative effects on your physical and mental health (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5579396\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, and horseback riding is no exception (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.lww.com\/acsm-healthfitness\/fulltext\/2013\/05000\/stress_relief__the_role_of_exercise_in_stress.6.aspx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you&#8217;re riding, you can focus on the present moment and forget about your worries. The rhythmic movement of the horse can also be calming and help clear your mind.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The environment you&#8217;re in can also add to the stress-relieving effects of horseback riding. Being out in nature, surrounded by fresh air and wildlife, can help reduce stress levels.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Social_Interaction\"><\/span><strong>Social Interaction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding can also be a great way to socialize. If you take lessons, you&#8217;ll meet other people who have the same interest in horses. You can also join riding clubs or groups and go on group rides. This is a great way to make new friends and have fun while getting some exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Get_Started_With_Horseback_Riding\"><\/span><strong>How To Get Started With Horseback Riding<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that we&#8217;ve gone over some of the benefits of horseback riding, let&#8217;s talk about how to get started.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;ve never ridden before, the best way to start is by taking lessons from a qualified instructor. They can teach you the basics of riding, how to care for a horse and help you feel more comfortable around horses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you&#8217;ve learned the basics, you can start renting or leasing horses. This is a great way to get more experience without making a long-term commitment. If you decide that you want to own a horse, there are many things to consider before taking the plunge.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We&#8217;ll briefly go over a few of the things you need to think about:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Type_Of_Horse\"><\/span><strong>The Type Of Horse<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many different types of horses, and it&#8217;s important to choose one that will be suitable for your riding ability and experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-43566 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207500-1024x576.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207500.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207500-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207500.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207500.png 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Budget\"><\/span><strong>Your Budget<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horses can be expensive, so you need to make sure you can afford the initial purchase price, as well as the ongoing costs of care and maintenance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Housing_Situation\"><\/span><strong>Your Housing Situation<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you have a property where you can keep a horse? If not, you&#8217;ll need to make arrangements for boarding your horse at a stable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Lean and toned up body isn\u2019t just a far-fetched fantasy. Check out the BetterMe app and watch it <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\">propel your weight loss journey<\/a> into high gear!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Time_Commitment\"><\/span><strong>Your Time Commitment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caring for a horse is a big <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/lose-50-pounds-in-5-months\/\">responsibility<\/a>. You&#8217;ll need to spend time everyday feeding, grooming, and exercising your horse (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/pet-care\/horse-care\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Again, the best way to get started on this journey is to consult with a qualified instructor or equine professional. They can help you assess your riding ability, choose the right horse, and make sure you&#8217;re prepared for the commitment of horse ownership.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-43568 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207502-1024x576.png\" alt=\"horseback riding exercise\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207502.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207502-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207502.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207502.png 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Good_Exercises_For_Horseback_Riders\"><\/span><strong>What Are Good Exercises For Horseback Riders<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To get into horseback riding, you&#8217;ll need a certain degree of fitness. Being physically fit will help you to control the horse and stay in the saddle for long periods. It will also <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-lose-saddlebags\/\">reduce your risk of injury<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are a few exercises that <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/muscle-confusion\/\">can help you get into shape<\/a> for horseback riding:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Squats\"><\/span><strong>Squats<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strengthens your quads, glutes, and hamstrings. Each of these muscles is used when riding a horse.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To do a basic squat:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bend your knees and lower your hips until your thighs are parallel to the ground.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure your knees don&#8217;t go past your toes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand back up and repeat.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Squat_Progression\"><\/span><b>Squat Progression<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Progressing to a more difficult squat will help you build even more strength in your lower body.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can increase the difficulty of your squat by:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Placing your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adding weight, such as holding a dumbbell in each hand.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doing a single-leg squat, also known as a pistol squat. This is where you stand on one leg and lower yourself down until your other leg is parallel to the ground.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/outdoor-activities-for-disabled-adults\/\">Fun And Engaging Outdoor Activities For Disabled Adults<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-43565 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207503-1024x576.png\" alt=\"horseback riding exercise\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207503.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207503-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207503.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Frame-207503.png 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lunges\"><\/span><strong>Lunges<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lunges are another great exercise for horseback riders. They target your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, as well as your hip flexors. These are all muscles that are used when riding a horse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To do a lunge:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step forward with one leg and lower your body until your front thigh is parallel to the ground and your back knee is close to the ground.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure your front knee doesn&#8217;t go past your toes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Push back to the starting position and repeat with the other leg.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lunge_Progression\"><\/span><b>Lunge Progression<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with squats, you can progress to a more difficult lunge by:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Placing your feet wider than shoulder-width apart.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adding weight, such as holding a dumbbell in each hand.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doing a reverse lunge, where you step backward instead of forward.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-Ups\"><\/span><strong>Step-Ups<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step-ups are another great exercise for horseback riders. They target your quads, glutes, and hamstrings. These are all muscles that are used when riding a horse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To do a step-up:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Place your right foot on an elevated surface, such as a step or box.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step up with your right leg and raise your body until your left foot is on the box.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step back down with your right leg and repeat with the left leg.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-Up_Progression\"><\/span><b>Step-Up Progression<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with the other exercises, you can progress to a more difficult step-up by:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increasing the height of the elevated surface.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adding weight, such as holding a dumbbell in each hand.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doing a single-leg step-up, where you raise your body with one leg and then step down with that same leg.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Looking for a way to <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\">break the vicious cycle of weight loss<\/a> and tone up all the jiggly parts? Watch the extra pounds fly off and your muscles firm up with the BetterMe app!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-43398 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/8-1024x576.png\" alt=\"horseback riding exercise\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/8.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/8-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/8.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/8-1636x920.png 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/8.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Calf_Raises\"><\/span><strong>Calf Raises<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Calf raises will strengthen <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/easy-workouts-to-lose-weight\/\">your calf muscles<\/a>, which are used when you&#8217;re in the stirrups. Strong calf muscles will help you to stay in the saddle for long periods.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To do a calf raise:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing forward.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rise up on your toes, hold for a second, and then lower back down.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Calf_Raise_Progression\"><\/span><b>Calf Raise Progression<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can make this exercise more difficult by:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doing a single-leg calf raise, where you rise up on your toes with one leg and then go back down.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adding weight, such as holding a dumbbell in each hand.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using the leg press machine at the gym.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Side_Planks\"><\/span><strong>Side Planks<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side planks target your obliques, which are the muscles on the sides of your stomach. Strong obliques will help you to stay in the saddle and maintain good posture while riding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To do a side plank:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lie on your side with your legs straight.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prop yourself up on your elbow and raise your hips so that your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your ankles.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold for 30 seconds and then lower back down.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Side_Plank_Progression\"><\/span><b>Side Plank Progression<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can make this exercise more difficult by:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Raising your top leg\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lifting your top arm off the ground\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Placing your foot on a stability ball<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you first start doing side planks, it&#8217;s ok to prop yourself up on your forearm instead of your elbow. As you get stronger, you can progress to the full side plank position.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Horseback_Riding_Exercise_The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><strong>Horseback Riding Exercise: The Bottom Line<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding is a great way to get all of the benefits of exercise while also enjoying yourself. If you&#8217;re thinking about starting an <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking-disadvantages\/\">exercise routine<\/a>, horseback riding is a great option. It&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-boost-metabolism-after-40\/\">important<\/a> to start slowly and build up your fitness level gradually.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re new to horseback riding, there are many resources available to help you get started, such as beginner lessons at a local stable or online tutorials.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Horseback_Riding_Exercise\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Gif_Blue-1.gif\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What&#8217;s a good exercise? One that incorporates aerobic fitness, strength training, core work, balance, and coordination, all into one. That, plus it must be one that you&#8217;re willing to stick with.\u00a0If you&#8217;re reading this, it&#8217;s because you&#8217;re interested in horseback riding, have access to a horse, or are already riding.\u00a0So you have a big advantage [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":43851,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[128],"tags":[],"coauthors":[122],"class_list":["post-43850","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-trainings"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It&#039;s Good For You And How To Get Started - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"\u2605 HORSEBACK RIDING EXERCISE \u27a4 is great for your health. This article discusses the benefits of horseback riding and how to get started.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It&#039;s Good For You And How To Get Started\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"\u2605 HORSEBACK RIDING EXERCISE \u27a4 is great for your health. This article discusses the benefits of horseback riding and how to get started.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"#\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1686758548.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"668\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Jeremy Mukhwana\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Jeremy Mukhwana\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"BetterMe\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/4f45d45b585b422491b674f36ead5013\"},\"headline\":\"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It&#8217;s Good For You And How To Get Started\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/\"},\"wordCount\":1784,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1686758548.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Trainings\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">What's a good exercise? One that incorporates aerobic fitness, strength training, core work, balance, and coordination, all into one. That, plus it must be one that you're willing to stick with.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">If you're reading this, it's because you're interested in horseback riding, have access to a horse, or are already riding.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">So you have a big advantage over others who may be trying to start an exercise regimen. You're lucky enough to have found an activity that ticks all of the boxes, and can be done year-round! <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Horseback riding is not only great exercise, but it's also enjoyable and can be done at any age. Many people take up horseback riding later in life and find that it helps them stay active and keeps them young at heart. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">So, what are the benefits of a horseback <a href=\\\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pregnancy-treadmill-workout\/\\\">riding exercise<\/a>?<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><strong>Strengthens Core Muscles<\/strong><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Your core muscles are a group of <a href=\\\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/losing-upper-back-fat\/\\\">muscles<\/a> that stabilize your spine and pelvis. These muscles include the abdominal muscles, the oblique muscles (on the sides of the abdomen), and the lower back muscles.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Strong core muscles are important for good posture, balance, and coordination.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">When you ride a horse, you have to use your core muscles to stay upright in the saddle and maintain your balance. As your core muscles get stronger, you'll find it easier to stay in control of the horse, and you'll be less likely to get tired on long rides (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2022.889605\/full#ref34\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">3<\/span ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/\",\"name\":\"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It's Good For You And How To Get Started - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1686758548.jpg\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"description\":\"\u2605 HORSEBACK RIDING EXERCISE \u27a4 is great for your health. 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This article discusses the benefits of horseback riding and how to get started.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It's Good For You And How To Get Started","og_description":"\u2605 HORSEBACK RIDING EXERCISE \u27a4 is great for your health. This article discusses the benefits of horseback riding and how to get started.","og_url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/","og_site_name":"BetterMe Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching","article_author":"#","article_modified_time":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1000,"height":668,"url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1686758548.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Jeremy Mukhwana","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@betterme","twitter_site":"@betterme","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Jeremy Mukhwana","Est. reading time":"9 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/"},"author":{"name":"BetterMe","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/4f45d45b585b422491b674f36ead5013"},"headline":"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It&#8217;s Good For You And How To Get Started","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/"},"wordCount":1784,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1686758548.jpg","articleSection":["Trainings"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What's a good exercise? One that incorporates aerobic fitness, strength training, core work, balance, and coordination, all into one. That, plus it must be one that you're willing to stick with.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you're reading this, it's because you're interested in horseback riding, have access to a horse, or are already riding.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So you have a big advantage over others who may be trying to start an exercise regimen. You're lucky enough to have found an activity that ticks all of the boxes, and can be done year-round! <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding is not only great exercise, but it's also enjoyable and can be done at any age. Many people take up horseback riding later in life and find that it helps them stay active and keeps them young at heart. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, what are the benefits of a horseback <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pregnancy-treadmill-workout\/\">riding exercise<\/a>?<\/span>\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Strengthens Core Muscles<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your core muscles are a group of <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/losing-upper-back-fat\/\">muscles<\/a> that stabilize your spine and pelvis. These muscles include the abdominal muscles, the oblique muscles (on the sides of the abdomen), and the lower back muscles.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strong core muscles are important for good posture, balance, and coordination.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you ride a horse, you have to use your core muscles to stay upright in the saddle and maintain your balance. As your core muscles get stronger, you'll find it easier to stay in control of the horse, and you'll be less likely to get tired on long rides (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2022.889605\/full#ref34\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/","name":"Horseback Riding Exercise: Why It's Good For You And How To Get Started - BetterMe","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/horseback-riding-exercise\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1686758548.jpg","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","description":"\u2605 HORSEBACK RIDING EXERCISE \u27a4 is great for your health. 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