The happiness of this earth lies on the back of horses. This dreamy postcard cliché contains a lot of truth. However, it by no means reveals everything about this sport: “Riding not only makes you happy, but also exerts a great many positive effects on the body,” says Dr. Dietmar Krause, a sports educator from the German Green Cross e. V. in Marburg.
Riding, for example, helps to keep the back healthy. In the normal sitting position on the horse, the hip joints and the pelvis assume a position that relieves the intervertebral discs. At the same time, however, the back muscles are moved and built up. The holding apparatus is strengthened overall with a low load. “Back pain is thus optimally prevented,” says Krause. Strengthening the muscles also improves their endurance capacity. The posture becomes altogether more upright and healthier. In addition, riding improves both coordination and balancing skills.
Hippotherapy
Horseback riding is an endurance sport. “Therefore, the heart and circulation also benefit from exercise in the fresh air,” Krause adds. More than in any other sport, the animal also plays a crucial role in horseback riding. Riding is only possible with a reliable partner. The relationship with the animal increases the fun factor and is both relaxing and exciting for many riders.
The positive effects on health are used in hippotherapy (Greek hippos = the horse). Now not everyone is in the fortunate position to provide a home for a horse. “Nor is it necessary,” knows the Marburg sports educator. Riders and physiotherapists have long recognized the opportunities offered by this sport. Hippotherapy has been offered sporadically for several years. This offer should be expanded and offered area-wide, says the Marburg expert.
Promote and maintain health
As an initiative of the German Sports Federation (DSOB), exercise instructors are trained in cooperation with the German Equestrian Federation (FN). These are either riding instructors with the additional qualification “Riding as a health sport” or physiotherapists who can ride and have acquired the additional qualification. Riding as a health sport can have the goal of promoting health and increasing general well-being.
However, courses are also offered with a focus on maintaining health despite age- or disease-related ailments such as rheumatism, osteoarthritis or metabolic disorders. Another course alternative is a preventive back class, which can be prophylactic or therapeutic in nature. “As a rule, these are six-week riding and sports courses for which participants do not need any previous experience,” explains Krause. The courses are suitable for any age group. The content is tailored to each participant.
