Horse riding – the best exercise to lose weight?

The British Equestrian Federation has been promoting horse riding through a new campaign and has suggested that it is one of the best exercises to lose weight.

Called Hoof it to Health, the campaign aims to get more people up off their sofas and into the saddle.

"Horse riding can burn as many calories as jogging [and] tones and strengthens your core muscle groups," said Lynne Munro, chair of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding.

She went on to say that the activity is also a great way to keep fit while enjoying the "psychological benefits of being outdoors in partnership with a horse".

Back in July, Dr Eeva Karjalainen, of the Finnish Forest Research Institute in Metla, claimed that outdoor exercise helps people to overcome medical ailments quicker than indoor activity.

She said that forests and other natural, green settings can strengthen the immune system, reduce stress, improve mood and reduce anger and aggressiveness.

Have you ever tried horse riding?