Hobby Horse Club Meets Riding Club – Two Worlds, One Concept
The wonderful thing about Hobby Horsing is that everyone can find something in it, whether as playful activity, a structured sport, or a gentle introduction to the world of horses. Eva, who runs an equestrian and therapy center while also leading a Hobby Horse club, has created a truly inspiring concept.
We have followed her journey from the very beginning and are impressed by the way she combines Hobby Horsing with children’s groups, riding lessons on real horses, and hippotherapy. In our eyes, this concept works beautifully, which is why we asked her a few questions.
How long have you had Hobby Horses?
Our Hobby Horses have been part of our stable for at least four years, complete with their own “stall” and plenty of accessories. Since we work with children as young as four, who naturally love to play, the Hobby Horses are used on a daily basis.
After riding lessons, stable chores, and feeding time, there is always space for play. Just like real horses, our Hobby Horses have their own names and are often closely associated with individual children. Interestingly, the most popular Hobby Horse usually resembles a real horse from our stable.
What events are the highlights?
Every year, we organize pony riding games, a dressage competition, and open house days. As a small riding stable, every successful event means a lot to us. These events allow children to present their skills and gain valuable experience, both with large horses and ponies.
Hobby Horse competitions have also become a fixed part of our tournament days. They usually take place toward the end of the event and add a fresh, playful element. The children often prepare a joint freestyle routine in advance, which encourages teamwork and creativity.
Seeing children return year after year is the greatest compliment we could receive.
How many real horses vs. Hobby Horses do you have?
At the moment, we have a perfect balance: nine real horses and nine Hobby Horses. Our stable is home to seven large horses and two ponies, Físa and Lejla.
In the clubhouse of our Hobby Horse club, there are nine Hobby Horses, including the first two white ones that I once sewed from a bedsheet for my children. Over time, seven additional sport-focused Hobby Horses in different colors and sizes joined the group.
From Hobby Horse to Real Horse
This transition usually happens naturally here. A child does not suddenly go from a Hobby Horse straight onto a real horse. However, Hobby Horsing helps children feel more confident and familiar in the equestrian environment.
Our main focus is hippotherapy, where Hobby Horses play an important educational role. They help children understand what qualities a therapy horse needs, such as calmly moving around a wheelchair.
Even children in our riding groups often use Hobby Horses to practice movements that still feel challenging on a real horse. This allows them to focus on posture, coordination, and balance in a playful way.
Joint or Separate Groups?
Currently, Hobby Horsing is integrated directly into our riding groups, and this approach has proven to be very successful. Riding requires a lot of focus and rule-following, so the children enjoy switching to playful Hobby Horsing afterward.
As interest in Hobby Horsing continues to grow, we are planning to establish a dedicated group focused on competition-level Hobby Horsing.
During summer, we host children’s day camps and overnight camps, where Hobby Horsing is an essential part of the program. When the horses rest in the stable or graze in the pasture, the children naturally turn to the Hobby Horses. Seeing how well this concept works and how much joy it brings is incredibly rewarding for us.
