Riding for Weight Loss – How Many Calories You Burn
Horseback riding can help you lose weight by burning calories and strengthening your body.
Depending on the intensity, you can burn between 150 and 700 calories per hour.
Is Horseback Riding a Good Workout?
Yes. Riding is a full-body workout that improves balance, posture, and muscle tone.
Calories Burned While Riding
- Light riding (walking): ~150–200 calories per hour
- Trotting or cantering: ~300–400 calories per hour
- Jumping or competitive riding: 500–700+ calories per hour
Light riding burns about 150 calories per hour, while jumping can exceed 700.
Other Fitness Benefits
- Improves posture and core strength
- Boosts cardiovascular endurance
- Builds muscle in legs, arms, and back
- Reduces stress and supports mental well-being
Riding not only burns calories but also strengthens muscles and reduces stress.
Make Horseback Riding Part of Your Weight Loss Plan
Consistency matters. Ride several times per week and combine it with healthy nutrition and other exercises.
Conclusion
Horseback riding is fun, effective, and a great way to stay fit while enjoying time with horses.
Frequently Asked Questions – Horseback Riding and Weight Loss
1. Is horseback riding a good workout?
Yes, horseback riding is a full-body workout that engages your core, legs, and upper body. It improves balance, coordination, posture, and muscle tone.
2. How many calories can you burn while horseback riding?
It depends on your weight and riding intensity. Light riding burns ~150–200 calories/hour, trotting or cantering burns ~300–400, and jumping can burn 500–700+ calories/hour.
3. Does grooming and barn work also burn calories?
Absolutely. Tasks like grooming, tacking up, and mucking stalls contribute to your daily activity and help burn additional calories while improving fitness.
4. What other fitness benefits does horseback riding offer?
It strengthens your core, legs, and back, improves cardiovascular endurance, enhances mental well-being, and helps reduce stress.
5. How can I use horseback riding for weight loss?
Ride consistently—several times a week—and pair it with healthy eating and other physical activities like walking or strength training for best results.








