Nothing says cowboy or cowgirl like riding through old El Paso, TX, on your noble steed. If you’re thinking about hitting the dusty trail and taking horseback riding lessons at a local stable, make sure you prepare for your adventure and know the benefits associated with riding a horse.
Strengthen Your Core
According to Evergreen Health, a nonprofit health care organization, this activity is actually a great way to improve your health. “Horseback riding really works the core muscles that stabilize the trunk: the abdominal, back, and pelvic muscles,” said Dr. Alison Stout, D. O., of the EvergreenHealth Sport & Spine Center. “It’s not just about the strength of the core, but the coordination and stability of it as well. The more you ride, the more the body learns to move with the horse.”
Take Advantage of the Mental Benefits
In addition, riding horses can help you mentally. It can be a relaxing experience, allowing you to connect with an animal and accomplish a task. “There’s a confidence that comes from learning how to handle and interact with this huge animal,” noted Dr. Stout. “You really learn about yourself as you experience time on a horse.”
Become Accustomed to Thinking on Your Feet
Health Fitness Revolution indicated, while riding a horse, you will also likely improve your ability to think quickly. While on the animal, you must constantly adjust your muscles and riding technique to the horse and how he or she reacts to various commands.
Investing in Gear
When you decide to start lessons, the stable may provide equipment like bridles and helmets. However, if you find you really enjoy riding, you may want to purchase some gear of your own to fit your unique needs. Consider the horse you ride and his or her size as well as your fit as a rider. You want both you and the horse to be comfortable and happy during the ride. In addition, you might want to invest in a bridle. You’ll want to purchase an item that is adjustable for a variety of different sizes. Fortunately, you can replace various components of a bridle, such as the bit, and tailor it to your needs. Head to a local tack shop and speak with an expert before you buy. If you want to keep all of your supplies safely stored away, consider renting an El Paso self-storage unit and creating a remote tack room for your belongings. Head to a local SecurCare Self Storage facility and talk to a professional today.