Horse Riding
There is a lot more to equestrian activities than you might think. In addition to the sporting aspect, most riders focus on the close relationship between man and animal and the trust that has grown over a long period of time. Whether tournament or leisure rider, dressage or Western rider – all agree on one thing: There is nothing better than discovering the world on horseback.
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On the move on horseback
To be on the road with a horse is not only to come closer to happiness but also to freedom. The trust between horse and rider is something very special and soon makes you forget the worries of everyday life.
Whether you go for a day ride, want to spend a few hours in nature or spend several days on your horse's back - riding is a wonderful way to switch off.
Things to know about horse riding
Riding styles
The three best-known riding styles are western riding, classical English riding and gaited horse riding. The riding style depends, among other things, on the breed of horse, but also on what the horse's trainer prefers and what the animal is used for.
Western riding gives as little impulsion as necessary. It is characterised above all by its speed. Classical English riding is the riding style that is learnt in most stables, where it is more about tact and smooth riding.
Not all breeds of horses are suitable for gaited horse riding. The horses learn other gaits besides walk, trot and canter.
Types of riding
The types of riding are different disciplines in horse riding. They can be practised both as a hobby and professionally.
- Dressage riding: The horse must perform various movements, whereby the execution is as important as how well the horse reacts to the rider.
- Jumping: Horse and rider jump obstacles of varying difficulty in a specific order.
- Vaulting: The rider performs acrobatic manoeuvres on the horse while it is being led in a circle on a box.
- Eventing: The "Military" consists of cross-country, dressage and show jumping.
- Horse racing: This is all about speed; several horses compete against each other over different distances.
- Polo: Two teams of four players each have to get a ball from a horse into the opponent's goal with the help of a wooden mallet.
Horse riding equipment
The equipment for riding differs depending on the riding style and type of riding. In addition, there are personal preferences. This makes it difficult to draw up a generally valid list for riding. The most common equipment is as follows:
- Saddle and bridle
- Riding helmet, trousers, boots and gloves
- Perhaps a riding crop
- Perhaps a protector
- Clothing adapted to the weather in a multi-layer principle
Especially for longer riding tours, you should also remember to bring drinking water, sun and rain protection, a first-aid kit and a mobile phone.
Riding tours with the features of Outdooractive
Would you like to discover new paths together with your horse? Outdooractive offers you everything you need! With the special trail network designed for riding tours, you can plan new tours and know exactly what terrain awaits you on the route. Or you can be inspired by the tours of the official partners and the community and ride their routes.
While you are on the road, you can record your track and save photos so that you always know where the best places for riding tours are in your region.
Offers and discounts from our partners
Benefit from exclusive offers from our partners
As a Pro and Pro+ member not only do you have access to additional features and the best maps at your disposal, but you can also benefit from exclusive offers from our partners, ensuring you are always fully equipped for the outdoors!
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