Hobby Horsing, the imaginative sport with hobby horses, is becoming increasingly popular. To be successful in this sport, the correct handling of your hobby horse plays a crucial role. Whether you’re training show jumping, dressage, or freestyle – controlling your hobby horse begins with the correct technique. But how do you actually hold a hobby horse correctly? In this guide, we’ll show you what’s important and how to optimally guide your hobby horse to get the most out of your training and competitions.
1. The importance of correct posture in hobby horsing
Before we get into the technique, it’s important to understand why correct posture is so crucial in hobby horsing. Your hobby horse must be under control at all times while moving so that you can safely jump over obstacles or execute dressage figures precisely. Good posture not only supports your balance but also allows you to move faster and more efficiently.
2. The basic attitude: How do you keep a hobby horse?
The basic approach to hobby horsing is comparable to keeping a real horse in various disciplines. Here are the key points:
- Hobby horse between your legs: The lower part of your Hobby Horse should be held between your legs or directly in front of you so that you can lean on it while you move.
- One hand on the hobby horse’s head: Hold your hobby horse’s head with one hand (preferably your dominant hand) so you can control the hobby horse while riding. This hand will be used to “steer” the horse.
- Other hand loosely at your side: Your other hand can either lightly stabilize the lower part of the hobby horse or hang freely at your side. Make sure your movements remain relaxed and loose.
The basic posture ensures that you have full control over your Hobby Horse at all times, but at the same time remain flexible enough to react quickly to movements.
3. Posture in show jumping
Show jumping requires power, speed, and precision. To safely negotiate the obstacles, you must hold your Hobby Horse firmly but in control:
- Both hands on the hobby horse: Before jumping, you should hold the hobby horse with both hands. Your front hand remains on the hobby horse’s head, while your other hand supports the middle part of the stick. This helps you stay stable during the jump.
- Stay relaxed: Despite the firmer grip, you shouldn’t tense up. Stay relaxed in the movement so you can perform the jumps smoothly.
- Movement in sync with your body: Make sure the hobby horse “jumps” and lands in sync with your body. The hobby horse’s movement should be harmonious with your posture.
The correct posture when show jumping helps you overcome higher obstacles and land more safely.
4. Posture during dressage
Dressage requires precision and grace, which is why the posture is slightly different than in jumping:
- Firm control of the head: Your leading hand should hold the hobbyhorse’s head firmly but gently. This gives you the control to execute the precise movements required in dressage.
- Relax your other hand: Your other hand can remain attached for support, but should be held loosely. Your movements should appear elegant and fluid.
- Body movement in sync with the horse: In dressage, it’s especially important that your body movements follow the figures you’re riding. Your hobby horse should move harmoniously, so it looks as if you’re leading a real horse.
A well-controlled posture in dressage ensures that your figures are executed precisely and gracefully.
5. Posture in freestyle and show competitions
In freestyle or show competitions, you have more freedom in presenting your hobby horse. Not only technique counts, but also creativity and expression:
- Creative hand position: You can hold the hobbyhorse in one hand or loosely with both hands. Depending on the choreography and performance, you can also incorporate playful elements, such as swinging the hobbyhorse or creating special figures.
- Flowing movements: Make sure your hand positions don’t appear jerky. No matter how you lead the Hobby Horse, it should always move in sync with your movements.
- Stay expressive: In show competitions, expression counts. Use your hands and the hobby horse to tell a story and show the audience that you and your hobby horse are one.
In freestyle, you have more freedom, but a solid hand position remains the key to keeping your hobby horse under control at all times.
6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced hobby horse riders sometimes make small mistakes when caring for their hobby horse. Here are the most common mistakes and how you can avoid them:
- Gripping too tightly: Many beginners tend to grip their hobby horse too tightly. This leads to cramped movements and impairs your performance. Make sure you hold the hobby horse firmly enough, but at the same time remain relaxed.
- Incorrect positioning of the hobby horse: The hobby horse should not be held too far forward or too far back. The head of the hobby horse should be approximately at chest height so you can control it properly.
- One-sided strain: Avoid holding your hobby horse with only one hand. This can lead to uneven strain and impair your balance. Switch hands occasionally during training.
7. Practice makes perfect: Perfect your posture
Proper posture for your hobby horse won’t happen overnight. As with any sport, perfecting your technique requires practice. Here are some tips to help you improve your posture step by step:
- Train regularly: Practice daily to improve your control of your hobby horse. Focus on maintaining balance and smooth movement.
- Analyze yourself: Record videos of your workouts and check your posture. This way, you can easily see where you can make improvements.
- Exchange with others: Train with other Hobby Horse fans to get tips and feedback on your technique.
With regular practice, you will soon notice how your posture improves and your movements become more fluid and controlled.
Conclusion: The right attitude is the key to success in hobby horsing
Proper handling of your hobby horse is the foundation for your success in hobby horsing. Whether it’s show jumping, dressage, or freestyle – a stable and controlled hand position ensures that you always have control over your hobby horse and that your training or competitions run smoothly. With a little practice and the right technique, you’ll soon become more confident and better at handling your hobby horse.
Are you ready to get started with hobby horsing?
Then visit our shop at Hobby Horse Planet and discover a wide selection of hobby horses and accessories. Start your training with the perfect hobby horse!
