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Hacking is best described as rambling on horseback. Hacking is the non-competitive, social riding of a horse along country lanes or bridle-paths for pure pleasure. Hacking can be undertaken by just one horse and rider or a group of riders.
Popularity
Hacking is by far the most popular equine activity, for many it is the only activity, while to others it is the routine daily exercise.
Location
Horses hacking out are commonly seen throughout the country. If you do not have a horse of your own there are stables spread across the country where you can hire a horse and join an organised ride either regularly or casually.
Age
Hacking is enjoyed by the greatest age span of riders, from children on lead reins from as young as four or five years, many riders continue well into their seventies, a very social activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family, as a group.
Ability
To hack out alone you must have the riding competency for your intended route, plus the unexpected. To hack out as part of a supervised ride needs the minimum of tuition, as horses and the route will be chosen to suit your ability.
Description
Hacking is one of the most diverse activities imaginable. You do not have to own your own horse to take up riding as a pastime. There are stables spread right across the country that hire out horses, by the hour or day, and for the more adventurous riding weekends or weeks. The advantage of which is that it opens up riding anywhere in the country that appeals to you (no horse to transport). There are riding holidays to suit every capability from a complete novice to the most experienced rider.
Dedication
Before going for a ride, as with any activity involving a horse, the correct waring apparel MUST be worn, a hard approved and correct fitting riding hat and body protection. A horse no matter how well schooled is a powerful and unpredictable animal. accidents can happen, it is not clever not to be protected.
Potential
Hacking has three potentials; 1) To see and explore great swaithes of the countryside, 2) To improve and enjoy the unique bond between horse and rider. 3) Hacking as a springboard into any of the other equine activities.
Closely
Related Activities
Horseball 225, Endurance 229, Dressage 230, Eventing 232, Gymkhana 233, Pony Club 238, Showjumping 241, Drag hunting 220 and other activities involving the enjoyment of a horse or countryside.
Cost
The costs of owning your own horse are not only the initial cost of purchasing the animal, but the ongoing costs of feed and upkeep, stabling, grazing, vet, shoeing, insurance and possibly transport. Horses can be hired out by the hour, fully turned out and ready to ride, from around £20. Riding weekends including bed and breakfast from around £200, this varies depending on chosen location and the standard of accommodation and the amount of tuition and riding required.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
 Energy |
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| Legs
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| Speech |
| Learning |
Please be advised that this record has not necessarily been reviewed by people with the expertise required to provide you with complete, accurate or reliable information. The information and images for this activity are supplied by the general public, Please contact us if there is a breach of copyright or you wish to improve the data.
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