Who says learning has to be serious? Some of the most powerful horsemanship skills are developed through play.
Riding games help riders improve control, balance, focus, and timing—without even realizing it. Plus, they’re a great way to keep horses mentally engaged and responsive.
Here are 3 simple, safe riding games you can try at home or in lessons, no matter your age.
🎯 Game #1: Cone Collect
Purpose: Improve steering, halts, and object handling
You’ll Need:
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6–10 cones
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Small items to “collect” (beanbags, rings, sponges)
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A bucket or box at the start
How to Play:
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Place items on cones around the arena.
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One rider at a time walks or trots to a cone.
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Pick up the item (or dismount to retrieve), return, and drop it in the bucket.
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Time each rider—or work in teams!
🧠 Skill Focus: Rein control, object confidence, balance during maneuvers
🐎 Game #2: The Freeze Tag Ride (a.k.a. Walk & Whoa)
Purpose: Improve stop/start transitions, focus, and quick thinking
You’ll Need:
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1 rider designated as “It”
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Optional: music speaker or whistle
How to Play:
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Riders walk (or trot) around the arena.
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When “It” calls “Freeze” or the music stops—everyone halts.
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The last one to stop = frozen! Another rider can “unfreeze” them by circling around them.
🧠 Skill Focus: Instant halts, responsiveness, focus under pressure
🧩 Game #3: Obstacle Course Challenge
Purpose: Build confidence, control, and smooth transitions
You’ll Need:
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A mix of cones, poles, tarp, gate, or hoop
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A stopwatch (optional)
How to Play:
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Set up a short course with 3–5 obstacles (e.g. trot poles → cone slalom → halt box).
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Riders must complete each obstacle in order with calmness and accuracy.
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Score on rhythm and execution—not speed!
🧠 Skill Focus: Transitions, steering, confidence over unfamiliar elements
🎯 Student Challenge
Invent your own game using 3 simple objects in your arena or paddock. Try it yourself—or test it with a riding buddy. Can you make it educational and fun?
🧡 Why Games Work
Riders relax. Horses stay curious. And progress happens naturally.
Games aren’t just for kids—they’re one of the best ways to reinforce cues, build leadership, and celebrate small wins in a big way.
📦 Want a Full Game Pack?
Download our “Games & Group Activities Workbook” from The Digital Stable for more creative ideas, setup tips, printable challenge sheets, and safety guidelines.
