Have you heard about Hobby Horse? It’s the new phenomenon that started in Europe and is now coming to the US – Tryon, NC to be exact! The first competition is Saturday, July 1st at Tryon International Equestrian Center! Read below to find out why Hobby Horse is the new spectacle that everyone can’t stop talking about… and that your kids can’t get enough of!

1. It’s inexpensive

Competitive Hobby Horsing is a lot more affordable for the average family budget than real horseback riding. The “horse” can be as cheap as $20 (and live in your house – no stabling fees!) There is also no specific dress code – wear regular gym clothes! We recommend some Nikes over real leather boots. Your only other expenses are gas money and road trip snacks.

2. It’s safer than regular horseback riding

Ok, so all sports have SOME risk factor. And while we love horses here at TIEC, there is risk sitting on top of a 1500-pound animal and asking it to jump several feet in the air safely. With Hobby Horsing, there is the occasional scratched elbow or bruised knee but overall, I think we can agree it’s safer than the real thing.

3. It’s great exercise

Think about it – the kids are running as fast as they can, jumping hurdles as high as they can… It’s just like track except they have the added difficulty of holding a Hobby Horse between their legs. We won’t go as far as to say it’ll be at the next Olympic games, but it really is a good workout. It definitely is better than sitting on the couch watching TV or playing on that iPad.

4. It teaches children valuable skills such as teamwork and dedication

Not trying to be corny – but kids really get into the competitive side of Hobby Horsing and some practice for hours EVERY DAY (YouTube it, I swear). In other parts of the world where it has already become very popular children take lessons, train for it, and they work together to overcome their obstacles, literally.

5. It gets kids to craft and build

Craftsmanship is a dying art these days among the younger generation. In a world where you can order everything online or have a machine build it for you, many kids no longer appreciate some old fashioned manual labor. Now you can order them online, but many competitive Hobby Horse riders prefer to design and build their own horse as a craft project. (Visit Etsy.com for more examples)

6. It supports imagination

Even though they really are running, jumping, and competing, it still takes a certain level of imagination to “ride your hobby horse” around the course. Not to mention imagining the horse’s temperament and athletic ability. Kids will definitely boost their creativity visualizing these horses rather than watching a pixelated version on the computer.

Still not sure if it’s the next big thing? Come check it out on Saturday, July 1st and see for yourself!

Already convinced and want to get in on the action? You can register to compete in our first show by clicking here (it’s free!) or email hobbyhorse@tryon.com with questions!