Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a sport where people ride horses. It is also called equestrian sport. Riders sit in a saddle on the horse's back. They use reins and their legs to tell the horse what to do. People have ridden horses for thousands of years. Today, horseback riding is both fun and a serious sport.

Riding Styles

There are many kinds of horseback riding. Dressage is like horse dancing, where horse and rider do fancy steps. Show jumping has riders guide horses over tall fences. Cross-country riding goes over long trails with natural jumps. Western riding is used for roping cattle on ranches.

Riding Safely

Riders wear helmets to protect their heads. Boots with small heels keep feet from slipping out of the stirrups. Riders learn how to sit up straight and hold the reins. They must treat horses kindly and with respect. Horses are strong animals, so safety is very important.

Fun Facts

• Horseback riding has been in the Olympics since 1900.
• A horse can live for over 30 years.
• Horses can sleep standing up.

Did You Know?

Horseback riding is one of the only Olympic sports where men and women compete against each other in the same events.