Horse riding is not only a sport — it is also a great way to relax and have fun with our four-legged friend. It is worth remembering that horses are social animals and enjoy spending time with people, so we can find plenty of ways to play and unwind together. Here are a few ideas for spending time with your horse:
- A hack through the forest or park – riding along woodland trails is a wonderful way to relax and take a break from everyday duties. You can also bring friends or family along and enjoy beautiful nature together with your horse.
- Team games – horses are highly intelligent animals, so we can play various team games with them. For example, we can organise a game of polo, a tracking game, or a fox hunt.
- Ball games – horses really enjoy playing with a ball, so it is worth getting a special horse ball and playing various games with your animal. Horses learn this game quickly, but remember to have a suitable ball so they do not destroy it too soon.
- Jumping obstacles with the horse in hand – for more advanced horses and riders, you can start teaching jumping without a rider. First we lead the horse on the lunge line over poles lying on the ground, and then gradually raise them until the horse has to start jumping. After a few such sessions we should be able to do it with the horse even without the lunge line.
Let us remember that playing with our horse should above all be safe for both sides. It is important not to push the horse beyond its limits and to adjust the activities to its abilities and skills. This way both we and our horse will be able to enjoy fun and relaxation together.
