After two years living under the stresses of a global pandemic, adults and children alike have looked for ways to reengage in activities and in some cases, start new ones. Equestrian Canada (EC) and the eleven provincial and territorial equestrian sport organizations across the country are uniting for an awareness campaign to share their love of horses and the benefits of riding with Canadians in hopes of growing the sport for now and the future.
The equestrian industry faced its own levels of challenges over this time with reduction in competitions, in-person events, and riding schools having had to stop lessons during the peak of the waves. Equestrians already engaged in the community have flocked back in almost pre-pandemic rates, but for a sport already in decline, the industry is still trying to recover. EC as the national federation working together with their provincial and territorial partners believe there is plenty of room for growth.
Long known as special companions, horses offer a unique way to participate in a lifelong activity that has a plethora of benefits to a person’s wellbeing. As part of the campaign called “Ride for Life”, horses are featured with their human counterparts explaining each of the special benefits that the entire experience of interacting with horses brings.
“Recreation and all sports involving horses are incredible activities you can enjoy throughout your life,” says EC Chief Executive Officer Meg Krueger. “We have Canadians competing at the high levels of equestrian sport into their sixties. But we have seen a decline in interest over the past decade, even before the pandemic. We want to encourage Canadians to experience what equestrians know is an enjoyable and rewarding activity that is highly beneficial to overall health and well-being.”
There can be concerns that the cost to ride keeps it unattainable. However, studies have shown that getting into the sport of horseback riding is not as expensive as some might think and there are ways to ride on a budget.
Comparisons to a variety of activities show the cost of getting into riding to be comparable to learning to play tennis and somewhat less than starting to play hockey. There are also ways to reduce the expense, including some barns offering those needing a break on cost to trade chores for discounted lessons and time in the saddle. Many social media boards offer used clothing and equipment. Local charities like community foundations and national organizations like Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart program support families that need financial assistance to get into a sport or physical activity like riding.
But those that consider themselves equestrians – or ‘horse people’ – will tell you that once you fall in love with horses, you don’t need convincing of the affordability or all the benefits of riding. You’ll be set and will find a way to #RideForLife! In addition to the longevity, being with horses regularly can offer a life full of good mental, physical and spiritual health, too.
The benefits being highlighted include:
- Having a teammate that accepts you as you are. Because horses are special beings that you can create a connection with and a friend and partner that will never judge you.
- Experiencing smiles for days. As spending time with horses is proven to stimulate the hormone Serotonin and offers feelings of increased well-being.
- Getting a boost of confidence. Working with and spending time around horses develops confidence, work ethic, and a sense of responsibility.
- Feeding your soul. Working with horses means interacting with an animal that you have to communicate together without words. It takes patience, kindness and understanding.
- Offering core benefits. Riding positions build excellent core strength, improve posture, increase spine health, and enhance leg muscle tone.
- Teaching problem solving. Riding offers the chance to break down communication barriers, surpass physical challenges and overcome obstacles.
With so many reasons, there is one that cannot be described. A uniting factor across the industry, it is simply described as a love of horses. What starts out for some on a rocking horse, during a trail ride, or a visit to a friend’s farm, it becomes an acronym phenomenon IYKYK – if you know, you know. That’s what EC and its partners believe this campaign is all about; welcoming new participants into the know.
EC and its equestrian sport organization partners in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Yukon encourage anyone interested in learning more to engage with their local association.
Horse Council British Columbia
Alberta Equestrian Federation
Saskatchewan Horse Federation
Manitoba Horse Council
Ontario Equestrian
Cheval Québec
New Brunswick Equestrian Association
Prince Edward Island Horse Council
Nova Scotia Equestrian Federation
Newfoundland and Labrador Equestrian Association
Equine Association of Yukon
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