STAR OF THE NORTH Unaffiliated Showjumping at Stainsby Grange
Sunday 08 June 2025
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Next event:
15/06/2025 showjumping clinic at Home farm Equestrian Leanne Heslop
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Horse riding is often seen as a leisurely pursuit or a hobby for countryside dwellers, but it’s much more than that. It’s a dynamic, full-body workout that can naturally support weight loss, build a strong core, and provide a sense of adventure and fun that no gym session can match.
Weight loss journeys are often associated with repetitive gym routines or restrictive diets, but what if you could achieve your goals while exploring beautiful landscapes, bonding with animals, and having genuine fun? Horse riding offers all this and more. Beyond its romantic image, riding is a physically demanding activity that engages multiple muscle groups, burns calories, and improves both mental and physical well-being.
Horse riding is a surprisingly effective calorie-burning activity. Depending on the intensity, you can burn anywhere from 250 to 700 calories per hour. A gentle hack will torch around 250–400 calories, while more vigorous activities like trotting, cantering, or galloping can push that number up to 700 calories per hour. That’s comparable to many popular aerobic exercises.
Riding is a blend of aerobic and anaerobic exercise. The constant need to balance, steer, and communicate with your horse means your core, legs, and arms are always working. Studies show that riding can raise your heart rate to 40–80% of its maximum, with energy expenditure similar to brisk walking, cycling, or even soccer, depending on the riding style.
| Activity | Calories Burned (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Horse Riding (walk) | 250–400 |
| Horse Riding (canter/gallop) | 550–700 |
| Brisk Walking | 250–350 |
| Cycling (moderate) | 400–600 |
| Swimming | 400–700 |
Note: Actual calories burned depend on intensity, rider weight, and terrain.
Staying fit isn’t just about looking good in your jodhpurs. A fit rider is a balanced, effective, and safer partner for the horse. Fatigue leads to poor posture, slower reactions, and can even increase the risk of injury for both rider and horse. A strong, fit rider can maintain good posture, move in harmony with the horse, and communicate clearly, making the experience more enjoyable and productive for both.
Practising these at home can greatly improve your riding performance and comfort in the saddle.
Horse riding is one of the best activities for building a strong core. Unlike static gym exercises, riding demands constant micro-adjustments to stay balanced as the horse moves beneath you. This “active core” engagement works the abdominal muscles, obliques, lower back, and even the hip flexors.
A strong core leads to:
Many riders notice their waistlines becoming more defined and their overall muscle tone improving, even if they don’t lose a significant amount of weight at first.
If you’re the adventurous type who craves excitement and new experiences, horse riding is a fantastic alternative to traditional workouts or weight loss medications. Riding holidays and trail rides offer the chance to explore breathtaking landscapes, meet like-minded people, and immerse yourself in nature—all while getting fitter and stronger.
It’s important to remember that your horse also needs to be fit and healthy to carry you safely. Choose a horse with the right build and ensure they are in good condition—not overweight or under-muscle. A fit horse with a strong back and good conformation will make riding safer and more enjoyable for both of you.
Horse riding is more than just a fun hobby—it’s a powerful, natural way to support your weight loss and fitness goals. Each ride engages your core, strengthens your legs, and improves balance without you even noticing you're working out. The constant movement helps tone muscles and boost flexibility over time. Unlike repetitive gym routines, horse riding keeps things exciting and adventurous. It's a full-body workout that feels more like play than effort. Whether you want to lose a few pounds or simply stay active in a joyful way, riding offers something different. So why not saddle up and let your fitness journey take the reins?
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