Can I Ride My Horse While Pregnant?

For many riders, pregnancy brings joy — and a lot of questions. One of the most common is whether it’s possible, or advisable, to continue riding while pregnant.

There isn’t a single answer that applies to everyone. Riding during pregnancy depends on many factors, including the individual rider, their experience, how their body feels, and how the pregnancy is progressing.

This article doesn’t offer medical advice. Instead, it explores the considerations riders think about, the realities many experience, and why this decision is so personal.

Safe Riding During Pregnancy

Horseback riding during pregnancy can be safe for many women, but it is essential to take extra precautions to protect both you and your baby. The most important factor is the stage of pregnancy and your fitness level.

Benefits of Riding During Pregnancy

• Physical exercise: Riding is a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness.
• Stress relief: The calm and routine nature of horseback riding can help reduce stress and anxiety.
• Connection with your horse: Continuing to ride during pregnancy allows you to maintain the bond you have with your horse, keeping both you and the animal in good spirits.

Recommendations for Safe Riding

• Consult with your doctor: Always speak with your healthcare provider before continuing or starting any physical activity during pregnancy.
• Avoid risky movements: Refrain from jumping, galloping, or doing anything that could risk falling or injury.
• Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body’s signals and avoid riding if you feel fatigued, dizzy, or uncomfortable.

What Riding Gear is Ideal for Pregnant Women?

Wearing the right gear can make a significant difference in how comfortable and safe you feel while riding. Here's a quick guide to choosing the right maternity riding gear:

• Supportive breeches: Opt for maternity breeches or riding pants that provide extra support around your belly and hips.
• Comfortable, supportive gloves: Riding gloves provide better grip on the reins and prevent hand fatigue.
• A properly fitted helmet: Ensure your helmet fits properly and securely to protect both you and your baby in case of a fall.
• Breathable, flexible clothing: Choose breathable materials that allow you to move comfortably and adjust as your body changes.

Key Features of Maternity Riding Gear

• Adjustable waistbands: Many maternity riding pants now feature adjustable waistbands that grow with your pregnancy, offering comfort and flexibility.
• Supportive bras: Invest in a good sports bra designed to offer extra support during physical activity, especially as your body changes.
• Padded underwear for extra comfort: My Riding Underwear offers padded underwear specifically designed to provide added comfort and protection against urine leakage, which is a common issue during pregnancy. These specialized underwear offer extra padding around the pelvic area and lower back, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit while riding. They help reduce pressure and provide support, allowing you to ride comfortably without worrying about leaks.

Comfort Tips for Riding During Pregnancy

Making sure you stay comfortable while riding is crucial to ensure both your safety and enjoyment. Here are some tips for staying comfortable while horseback riding during pregnancy:

1. Ride for shorter periods: It’s better to ride for shorter, more frequent sessions rather than long rides.
2. Take frequent breaks: Stand up, stretch, and walk around to keep your circulation flowing and prevent stiffness.
3. Stay hydrated: Always keep a bottle of water nearby and drink plenty of fluids during your ride.
4. Avoid extreme temperatures: Ride during cooler parts of the day or in cooler weather to avoid overheating.
5. Use padded underwear for extra comfort: My Riding Underwear's padded underwear can provide extra cushioning and support during your rides, helping to prevent discomfort, especially in your pelvic region and lower back. Plus, it’s designed for urine leakage protection, which can be helpful as pregnancy progresses.

Additional Precautions for Pregnant Women Riding Horses

While many women can continue riding throughout pregnancy, there are specific precautions to take:

• First trimester: The risk of miscarriage is higher in the first trimester, so it is advised to avoid strenuous activities and any form of impact.
• Third trimester: As your body grows and becomes less stable, you may find it more difficult to ride comfortably. Consider stopping riding as your pregnancy progresses, particularly if you feel any discomfort or fatigue.
• Riding in the early stages: Riding can be more physically challenging in the early stages, and you should prioritize balance and comfort.

Frequently asked questions riders have about riding while pregnant

Is it common for riders to stop riding during pregnancy?

Yes. Many riders choose to reduce or stop riding at some point during pregnancy, especially as balance and comfort change.

Can riding feel different even early in pregnancy?

For some riders, yes. Subtle changes in balance, fatigue, or body awareness can appear earlier than expected.

Is there a “right” time to stop riding?

There is no universal timeline. Decisions are often based on personal comfort, confidence, and how the body responds rather than a specific week or month.

How do riders stay connected to their horses if they stop riding?

Many riders focus on groundwork, grooming, in-hand work, or simply spending quiet time with their horse during this phase.

Pregnancy is a time of adjustment, not loss. For riders, that often means redefining the relationship with riding — temporarily or long term — in a way that feels respectful of both body and instinct.

Whatever choice a rider makes, it deserves understanding rather than judgment.

Last updated: 2026