Riding results in positive personality traits
For parents wondering if horseback riding is a good sport for your child, researchers say yes. Riding promotes determined, balanced humans that are enthusiastic and structured, according to a new study.
Researchers say they found those traits at a higher rate in equestrians than in people with other hobbies. They say that is because horses foster characteristics like leadership, competitiveness, determination, and resilience.
The study conducted by the German Equestrian Federation (FN) investigated the personalities of more than 800 riders and non-riders. The riders showed a higher incidence of positive character traits displaying a healthy self-confidence.
Close contact with horses also requires a higher degree of empathy and sensitivity due to the animals’ subtle body language researchers concluded. They say this especially benefits young children.
The surveyed riders said they felt balanced and happier because of their contact with horses.
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