Fun Games to Play on Horseback

Playing games on horseback is an excellent way for riders of all levels to improve their skills. Mounted games can help a rider develop balance and improve his seat in the saddle as well as improve his use of aids and communication with his horse. Games are fun for both horses and riders, providing variety from traditional lessons.

  1. Group Party Games

    • Many traditional party games and group games can be adopted for use by riders on horseback. Follow the Leader, for example, can be played by riders at all levels. The leader can set up obstacles depending on the ability of the group; obstacles can be as simple as barrels to walk around or as complex as a course to jump through. Follow the Leader will help riders develop balance and pacing as well as control over their horses' movements. Simon Says is another traditional game that can be played on horseback and easily adapted to any riding level.

    Timed Games and Races

    • For intermediate and advanced riders, timed games and races can be exciting. Barrel races develop balance and turning for both horses and riders, and time obstacle courses can be built to develop any skills you want to focus on. Red Light, Green Light is a racing game that can be played by beginning riders as well: Allow only walking or trotting when the light is green.

    Traditional Mounted Games

    • Many games are traditionally played on horseback. One example for advanced riders is polo. You can play polo without special equipment by using broomsticks and a soccer ball, but make sure that all the horses are accustomed to the equipment first. Another popular mounted game that intermediate and even beginning riders can play is Ride-a-Buck. In this game, riders mount their horses bareback, and each rider is given a dollar to place under her leg. Riders then ride in a circle, and the leader calls out commands to walk, trot or canter. As they switch gaits, riders attempt to keep the dollar from flying out. The last rider to lose her dollar wins.