Can You Ride a Horse While Pregnant?
A balanced look at the risks, considerations, and common practices for riders navigating pregnancy.
This is a question many riders ask after finding out they’re pregnant. The short answer is: it depends, and for many people, the answer changes as the pregnancy progresses.
Some experienced riders continue riding during early pregnancy, especially at a walk or easy trot. Others choose to stop riding altogether as soon as they know they’re pregnant. Both choices are common, and neither is unusual in the U.S. horse community.
The biggest concern isn’t the riding itself — it’s the risk of falling. Horses are unpredictable, even the calm ones. A spook, slip, or sudden movement can happen without warning, and falls are the leading cause of serious injury for riders.
Pregnancy also affects balance. As your center of gravity changes, it becomes harder to sit securely in the saddle, even for skilled riders.
Ligaments naturally loosen during pregnancy, which can increase the risk of strains or joint injuries.
Riders who continue during pregnancy usually stick to very controlled situations. This often means:
Even then, many riders stop once they begin to feel off-balance or uncomfortable.
Most doctors recommend avoiding activities with a high risk of falling during pregnancy, and horseback riding is often included in that category.
Individual advice can vary depending on health, riding experience, and how the pregnancy is progressing. Personal comfort and medical guidance matter more than general rules.
In practice, many pregnant riders eventually choose to stop riding and stay involved in other ways. Grooming, groundwork, and barn chores allow them to stay connected to their horses without the added risk.
"Riding will always be there later. Pregnancy is temporary, but avoiding unnecessary risk during that time is often the priority."
- Balance changes as pregnancy progresses
- Falling is the primary risk factor
- Medical advice is highly individualized
- Groundwork is a safe alternative
Always perform a check-in with your doctor before deciding your riding schedule. Every pregnancy and every horse is different.