Equestrianism for Everyone
By Lee Hyo-won
Staff Reporter
Equestrianism is largely regarded as an elitist pastime but galloping on horseback is more accessible than one may think.
Horseback riding became relatively popular in Korea in the 1980s but dwindled with the onset of the Asian financial crisis. According to the Korea Racing Authority, there are only about 50,000 equestrians in the country of which only 5,000 or 10 percent regularly ride on a weekly basis.
Nevertheless, the sport is beginning to garner more public interest and facilities offering affordable services can be found around the country.
Equestrianism is recognized to encourage healthy body posture and develop physical endurance, flexibility, a sense of rhythm and mental concentration (``Classical Equestrianism'' by Kim Un-young; Gimm-Young Publishers, 326 pp., 38,000 won).
Because the body moves in rhythm with the horse it requires the use of all the muscles and joints, particularly the hips and lower abdomen ― being thus a great diet solution.
Moreover, it's a sport in which one can befriend one of mankind's longtime friends, the horse.
``Horseback riding is the only sport where one can make a spiritual connection with a living organism, and the speed and elation it offers cannot be compared with any sport,'' said Sohn Seong-wook of Yongyu Equestrian Club in Yeongjong Island, Incheon. Here, riders can enjoy a stroll (or speedy race) on horseback at the nearby Yongyu Beach. Call (032) 752-8887.
But as much as horseback riding is exhilarating it can be dangerous. Sohn has been riding horses for over 20 years, and has never suffered a big injury from a fall. But he stresses that the horse is as wary as the first time rider.
Riding horses are very docile but are also very sensitive, with heightened visual, aural, smelling and touching abilities. They are also very fearful. But once one gains confidence on horseback, which includes winning the confidence of the horse, it can be a most beautiful experience, he said.
Free Horseback Riding Lessons
The Korea Racing Authority offers free equestrian lessons for beginners in Seoul and on Jeju Island. The eight-day course comprises two days of learning theory and equipment followed by six days of riding lessons. Participants can choose from morning or afternoon sessions on weekends or weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday).
Healthy individuals born between Jan. 1, 1954 and Dec. 31, 1995 can apply. Underage participants require documented approval from his or her guardian. Jeans and sneakers will suffice.
Call (02) 509-1647 or visit https://company.kra.co.kr.
The Korea Youngster's Horseriding Club operates a free, afterschool equestrian program for children in 10 elementary schools around the country. Visit www.gima.or.kr (Korean).
Horses Galore
Youeal Leisure Town
This theme park is located in Paju, Gyeonggi Province ― less than 40 minutes away from downtown Seoul. The park features a manmade pond and various facilities, including a stable of 45 horses, including ponies.
For 320,000 won per month, you can ride a horse for three hours on Saturdays. Or you can purchase coupons for 10 sessions (including lessons) over a two-month period (650,000 won). Visitors can also taste horse meat dishes in restaurants located within the resort.
Call (031) 948-1364 or visit www.youealleisure.co.kr (Korean).
Ride Through the Woods
Unjusan Recreational Equestrian Forest
Unjusan is the country's first regional government-operated franchise. Located in a recreational forest in Yeongcheon, North Gyeongsang Province, it offers horseback riding into the forest at a low cost.
Members can enjoy unlimited equestrianism for just 300,000 won per month. Coupon holders can enjoy the same privilege for just 180,000 won, a third of the cost at most clubs near Seoul.
There are indoor and outdoor tracks as well as a 3.5-kilometer trail into the forest, the longest in Korea.
Call (054) 330-6784~5 or visit www.unjusan.co.kr (Korean).
Trot Along the Beach
Imjado Seaside Equestrian Park
Imjado Seaside Equestrian Park in Sinan, South Jeolla Province, is one of the few places in the country, along with Yongyu, where riders can trot along the beach by a romantic sunset. Riders must pass a test in order to ride onto the sand, however.
The park's hallmark program is a one-night, two-day package that includes lessons and meals (150,000 won per person). Basic lessons cost 100,000 won per hour. The park also offers an internationally certified educational program. It also hosted the country's first horse marathon in 2008.
Call 070-8285-2450.
Equine Museum
The Korea Racing Authority operates an equine museum. Founded in 1988, the museum provides insight into Korea's traditional equestrian culture. The oldest relics date all the way back to the pre-Three Kingdoms period (before 1 B.C.).
Located within Seoul Racecourse. Admission is free of charge. Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closes an hour early at 5 p.m. in the winter from November through February). Call (02) 509-1283 or visit https://company.kra.co.kr (Korea and English).
Equestrian Etiquettes
1. Proper equestrian gear ― boots, uniform, hat, gloves and safety equipment ― are a must.
2. Pay attention to and discern the horse's body/verbal language, and respond accordingly. Have consideration and respect for the horse and other equestrians at all times.
3. Be careful not to alarm the horse, which can respond sensitively to small noises or peculiar odors and visual stimuli such as camera flashes.
4. Take time with your horse before and after riding, to make an emotional connection and to warm up and warm down. Conclude the riding session by walking together and showing warm appreciation to the horse.
5. Try to maintain the proper posture: the head, shoulders, back and elbows should be aligned in an upright position, but the shoulder and back muscles should be relaxed. The thighs should exert as much strength as possible.
6. Never canter in the opposite direction of another equestrian. Try to keep to the right hand side and maintain a safe distance (3 meters) from other riders.
7. Refrain from walking around the rear of the horse. If it is necessary to do so, keep a safe distance, or if the space is limited proceed by keeping a hand on the horse's rear and speaking to the horse, to inform it of your location.
8. Do not panic if you fall from the horse in order to prevent secondary injuries.
9. Attempting to teach equestrianism to others must be proceeded with extreme caution and discretion, so as not to deprive them of the pleasure of learning things on their own.
10. Explain basic equestrian rules to guests and do not let domestic pets run loose.