Home > Uniquely Unspoilt Magazine > Issue 23 > Riding
~~ Trekking and Riding by Ian Sutherland ~~
Although we're constantly being told that we're a nation of couch potatoes and for the sake of our health and long-term well-being we'd better shape up and take regular exercise, for most of us the thought of baring all in a gym or pounding the road in track suit and trainers is about as appealing as a dish of yesterday's porridge!
But there is a way that means that even the most lethargic and unfit can take exercise while enjoying the sights and sounds of the countryside. How about a gentle ride on a well-mannered horse or pony at a trekking and riding centre in Scotland?
Most centres cater for all types of rider from the first timer to the experienced, whether you want to wade through bracken and rushing streams in search of panoramic views, enjoy the thrill of riding at speed, gently canter along a deserted beach, or trail leisurely homewards through pine scented forest.
Typically there will be a group of around six riders with one or two experienced escorts or ride leaders who will give instruction. From horseback there are great opportunities to observe local scenery, flora and wild life as you follow tracks across fields and moors and through woodland.
This may sound rather tame to the more experienced rider but many trekking and riding centres also offer more exciting experiences such as trail rides when rough terrain may be crossed at all paces including the gallop, and some rides involve overnight stays on the trail.
For the beginner there will be instruction on the basics of riding before you set off on your trek which may take from one hour to a day, although it is recommended that the absolute novice takes a short ride to ensure that the experience is going to be an enjoyable one.
If you are interested in trekking or riding to fill the odd Saturday or Sunday or to be a major part of your vacation it is important that you select a riding centre not only to satisfy your requirements but importantly to ensure that safety standards have been met.
Riding is a rewarding pastime anywhere, but to experience Scotland by saddle cannot be beaten. There is no feeling in the world better than mounting up and heading off into our wide-open spaces, and there are several riding centers to choose from.
These including Peebles Hydro Stables in the Borders, offering pony trekking and trail riding in Glentress Forest, to treks through the beautiful scenery by the shores of Loch Fyne courtesy of Argyll Riding in Inverary.
There is also the Gairloch Riding Centre on the beautiful Gairloch estate on the west coast 75 miles from Inverness with rides on private, off-road tracks through rugged hills and forests and with spectacular views.
Don't imagine that your sturdy mount is doing all the work; you will find muscles that you didn't know were there and burn up a few calories without the exercise being taxing or stressful. A gentle hack burns 40 calories every ten minutes, while cantering and galloping burns 70 calories.
So, c'mon, switch off the telly, get off that couch, round up the kids and friends and get off to a trekking or riding centre (with prior arrangement)! Both you and your body will benefit from the experience!
Ian Sutherland, chairman of the Trekking and Riding Society of Scotland
Tel/Fax: 01567 820909
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