(Reading time ~3 mins)
ROSHNI SANTOSH
(Sports Enthusiast)
What happens when a three-year-old meets a horse for the first time ever? Well, for three-year-old me, it was obsession at first sight. Eighteen years later, that wonderful feeling of being on horseback is just as exciting as it was on the first day. Anyone who strikes up a conversation with me is bound to hear quite a bit about horses, and I must admit that I tirelessly strive to introduce everyone I meet to the wonderful world of equestrian sport. (and you, dear sports-enthusias
Equestrian sport (the fancy technical term for horse-riding, yes) consists of a variety of styles and disciplines. For the uninitiated, the first image that comes to mind when someone mentions horse-riding is that of racehorses and jockeys. That’s just one aspect of it, though. Equestrian sport consists of a lot more than just racing – there’s polo, dressage, show-jumping, cross-country, trail-riding, barrel racing…the list goes on (I’ll save the technicalities for later and skip to the fun part for now).
Horse-riding is fun. And if that wasn’t reason enough to get started, might I add that it’s also exceptionally good for you – both physically and mentally. Here’s why:
When you ride a horse (especially during the first few months), you will feel muscles you never knew existed (I speak from experience!)
Trying to stay on a moving horse without falling off (whilst simultaneously trying not to bounce around like a sack of potatoes ) is hard work. But once you achieve it, you’ll feel like a swift warrior on his/her noble steed. (True story).
This goes without saying. Controlling an animal that weights approximately 450 kilograms is no joke, and in the process of doing so you will feel your muscles getting stronger with each ride. Post riding, carrying the saddle & tack around the barn, moving bales of hay and grooming your horse is great weight-training exercise.
Bonding with a horse gives you a wonderful feeling of companionship. For me, my horse is like a kindred spirit, whose company I value above all else (even most humans!) The bond between a horse and rider is developed slowly, and each step teaches you many valuable lessons.
Caring for a living being comes with a lot of responsibility. Every single day spent with a horse – whether it’s your own, or at a club – is a learning experience. Even the most seasoned equestrians admit that there is always something new to learn, which is definitely an exciting prospect.
It’s like having wings. The feeling of galloping along a trail with the sound of hooves and the wind in your face is incomparable, to say the least
All of the above is just the tip of the iceberg, of course. I could ramble on incessantly about the wonders of the equestrian world, but I’d rather you get out there and experience it for yourself. Nothing beats firsthand experience, right? Riding is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle. So go on, hop in the saddle!
Do watch this space for more on the wonders of the equestrian world. Get in touch through Spyn and book a horse-riding experience right away- you will not regret it!
Cheers and happy riding!
~Winston Churchill
Do you have any experiences from a horse-back? Leave a comment below.
And watch this space for more on horse riding.
ROSHNI SANTOSH
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
spyn is operational in Bangalore and Mumbai. You are welcome to try the concept and give us feedback.
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