Be a cowgirl (or boy) for a day!
By Laura Bijnsdorp
If you want to explore the jungle, valleys, mountains or countryside, instead of walking, which of course is a GREAT workout, you may opt for a different perspective and do it while horseback riding! How are you exercising while sitting on a horse?! Believe me, spend a few hours on a horse and you will feel your muscles – muscles you have not felt before!
Though there is controversy over the exact date horses were domesticated and when they were first ridden, the best estimate is that horses were first ridden approximately 3500 BC. All over the world throughout human history, both in warfare and in peaceful pursuits, the horse has played and continues to play an important role in, for example, transportation, trade and agriculture.
Horseback riding is a great way to exercise different parts of the body as it really works the core muscles that stabilise the trunk (the abdominal, back and pelvic muscles) which helps with good, overall muscle tone and flexibility. Depending on the type of riding and the speed and agility of the horse, horseback riding can require more effort, energy and cardiovascular capacity.
There are also many mental benefits to horseback riding. There’s a confidence that comes from learning how to handle and interact with this huge animal. You really learn about yourself as you experience time on a horse. I find horseback riding to be a very relaxing and calming experience. It takes me away from any other worries or issues because, for the time being, the only focus is on riding and staying on the horse.
Regardless of age or experience, you should wear a helmet when you do go out riding. Nowadays, I only horseback ride occasionally on travels, but if you go horseback riding more often, or even have your own horse, you also know how tough the work (out) around the riding experience can be!
During my travels, I have ridden horses in many different countries. In Nicaragua, for example, there are an estimated 400,000 working horses which communities depend upon for vital income and services. This also means that when you go horseback riding, besides a fun and healthy activity, you also often get the unique chance to immerse yourself in areas, communities and cultures that are only accessible on horseback.
Keep in mind that especially when travelling through third-world countries, you need to be mindful of the health of the horses you are going to ride. Luckily, I have had very few bad experiences, but I did turn down a horse-riding tour once because the animals looked sickly and underfed. So make sure you ride with a reputable company!
Enjoy the ride, cowgirls/boys!
