Does Horseback Riding Burn Calories?

Horseback riding is a fun activity that offers so many benefits. It allows you to see new areas, boost your mood, and relax. However, there are even more health benefits. It is a great form of exercise. You may wonder, does horseback riding burn calories? Below, you will find helpful information that will help you better understand the benefits of horseback riding.

Does Horseback Riding Burn Calories?

Most people do not often think about horseback riding as a form of exercise. However, it is a great form of exercise and is actually a full-body workout. Because it is a full-body workout, you can burn quite a few calories on a ride. Horseback riding in Orange County can burn between 150 to 700 calories per hour. These numbers are based on a rider that is around 150 pounds. You will burn less calories if you are lighter and more calories if you are heavier. These numbers are dependent on several factors, so calories can vary.

There are several factors that impact how many calories you burn during a horseback riding session. The type and intensity of the ride can impact calorie burn. For example, a leisurely trail ride is much less intense than jumping or dressage. The weight of the rider is also impactful as you will burn more calories the heavier you are. Lastly, the pre and post-ride activities can also help you burn more calories. This is because saddling up the horse can burn a few hundred calories in addition to the ride.

Impact of Horseback Riding on Your Physical Health

There are several different types of horse riding styles. The differences in styles have varying degrees of physical intensity. In addition to calories, horseback riding has a great impact on your physical health. Consider the following ways horseback riding can improve your physical health.

Increased Muscle Development

Riding a horse requires engaging your muscles at all times. This includes your core and leg muscles. Your core is what helps your upper body balance on top of the horse. Additionally, your legs grip the horse to ensure you stay in control of your body. This includes your calves, thighs, and glutes. Engaging your muscles for extended periods of time improves muscle strength over time.

Improved Balance and Coordination

Horseback riding involves several moving parts. You have to maintain control of the horse through controlling the reins. You communicate with the horse using your legs. This requires both strength and balance. Lastly, staying on top of the horse requires balance. Combining all of these together requires coordination. Horseback riding improves your balance and coordination due to the actions that simultaneously occur.

Enhanced Cardiovascular Health 

Depending on the intensity of your horseback riding session, it can improve your cardiovascular health. This is especially true if you ride at higher speeds, such as jogging, cantering, or galloping. Riding styles like dressage and barrel racing can easily raise your heart rate. This movement also improves circulation. Promoting blood flow has a positive impact on your heart health. Riding regularly can also help you manage your weight due to the cardiovascular benefits.

Things To Do In Costa Mesa

There are several areas where you can horseback ride in Costa Mesa. Fairview Park, Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center, and the Back Bay Loop Trail are great areas to ride at. Because it is sunny almost all year round in Orange County, you can hit the trails and enjoy your ride almost any day. 

If you are looking for things to do in Costa Mesa, consider horseback riding at one of the various locations in the area!