Hobby horsing is a real trend sport, especially for children, and does not require real horses. Here you can find out what is behind it and whether it is an alternative to equestrian sports.
Many children dream of taking riding lessons or want their own pony for their birthday. However, their parents are often unable to fulfill their wish. A possible alternative is hobby horsing: Here, instead of a real horse, a purchased or self-sewn hobby horse is used, with which elements from equestrian sports such as show jumping or dressage can be simulated. The sport is not only reserved for young girls, but this target group predominates in hobby horsing.
Where is Hobby Horsing practiced?
Hobby Horsing has its origins in Finland, where it has been practiced since the 1980s. It even hosts regional competitions and an annual national championship. It was not until 2017 that the breakthrough came thanks to the documentary “Hobbyhorse Revolution” by Finnish director Selma Vilhunen – in several other countries, the hobby of horsing has gained popularity and has become a trend sport.
Especially during the Corona lockdown, sport with a hobby horse was a good way for many parents to keep their children busy. There are no official rules for the sport in Germany (yet), but there are a few clubs for hobby horsing: According to the German Hobby Horse Trainers Association, 78 clubs are currently registered in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Equestrian sport: criticism and advantages
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / markusspiske)
Equestrian sport is often criticized. But one should not generalize – riders are not animal abusers per se. But there are always scandals, especially in professional sports, such as in show jumping in the pentathlon at the Olympics. It becomes problematic when a horse is used as a piece of sports equipment and is no longer seen as a partner.
Horses need exercise, otherwise they can suffer physical damage and behavioral problems. However, they can also be damaged when riding through incorrect loading – for example through an incorrectly fitting saddle – which is why as a rider you have to pay attention to a few things. Among other things, it is important to have well-fitting and regularly checked equipment and exercise to build muscle.
Because horseback riding uses muscles throughout the body, it can have health benefits, such as helping you improve your posture. Horses are also used for therapeutic purposes because of their sensitivity.
Hobby Horsing as an Alternative to Equestrian Sports?
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / romavor)
No animal is used in hobby horsing and therefore nobody can be harmed, but of course it is not quite the same. The German Equestrian Federation sees the sport as a good opportunity to motivate children to exercise in the fresh air, to arouse their interest in horses and to introduce them to equestrian sports.
Riding is time-consuming, and riding lessons and equipment are often very expensive. The sport is therefore not accessible to everyone – it’s different with hobby horsing. Since it takes little to make a hobby horse (see our DIY Crafts article for instructions), the sport is accessible to people who don’t have a lot of time or money. You can also take part if you have an animal hair allergy or are afraid of horses. Also, riding a hobby horse comes with significantly less responsibility than riding a real horse.
Hobby Horsing has other advantages: it promotes balance and coordination, while at the same time sport in a club can strengthen social skills and team spirit. Making the hobby horses and inventing roles for them requires creativity and imagination. Even if some “real” riders might smile at hobby horsing, the most important thing should be having fun with exercise – no matter what form it takes.
Read more on Techzle.com:
- Carnival: “A horror for horses”
- Make horse treats yourself: Two healthy recipes
- Movement games for children: fun for indoors and outdoors
German version available: The Sport of Hobby Horsing: 6 Reasons It’s Awesome