We are offering an alternative to going to the gym to lose wieght. Why dont you and a group of your friends take up riding and keep fit at the same time. We are starting morning classes for those who are interested. We also have a coffee shop on site its an ideal way to pass the morning with a group of friends while kids are at school guilt free while burning loads of calories. We are offering a group discount for five or more people who want to ride in morning sessions.

“If you love horses and the outdoor life, then horse riding could very well be a fabulous new hobby that could help you get fit. Even if you've never ridden before, it's possible to take up riding later on in life and develop muscles that you never knew you had. So how do you get started?”

But Will Riding Make You Fit?

Definitely. "Horse riding is an aerobic activity, usually involving moderately low intensity of exercise for long periods of time," says Whale. "You will burn up calories, and use major muscle groups such as the abdominals, obliques, gastronomies, and thigh muscles. You will be sore for a while when starting to ride, but if you remember to stretch before and afterwards, and warm up and cool down too, you'll ease the pain." You also need to develop joint suppleness and flexibility – especially in the ankles, knees, hips and shoulders – in order to sit on and exert commands to your steed. If you go to a good gym, they should be able to develop a series of exercises that will help you get fitter (but remember, getting fit involves both physical activity and a healthy eating plan, so be sure you have both)

The rewards are significant though; you will have gained a sporting hobby that gets you outside, in the fresh air, interacting with your new best mate – a horse - in a fun, friendly way. And remember the calorie burn. One source puts the figures as roughly 240 per hour for hacking; 480 for mucking out the stable; while schooling a horse is said to burn 360… Happy riding.(Taken from the Wieght Watchers website.)

Lessons & Pony Camps

Horse Riding Tuition is by Marie Burke and her team of tutors.

Marie has competed with distinction on the National and International showjumping circuits. This experience, coupled with her tuition ability and track record ensures Clare Equestrian remain one of the top facilities in the country:

• Lessons are available on request, either for individuals or for groups
• Regular Lessons for adults are held every Tuesday at 6pm - 9pm and Wednesday evening from 6pm to 9pm.
• Regular Lessons for Children are held every Friday evening from 4pm to 8pm and from 10am to 6pm on Saturday
• We coach people from beginner to advanced level
• Horse Management Classes for Adults are run throughout the year
• We ensure that the correct horse is matched with each rider based on experience and ability
• Safety is of paramount importance to us
• We are keen that people also have fun and enjoy the overall experience

Our Pony Camps for children are proving very popular. These are held at Easter, Summer and during the October school break.

Set in 70 acres of unspoilt natural countryside we offer the following:

• Trekking for individuals and groups - we cater for all levels
• Clare Equestrian Centre offers riders an excellent choice of Cross Country rides
• Lessons & Pony Camps - our professional instructor are experienced in all areas of riding and horse management
• Horse Sales - we offer a wide range of horses for sale to meet with your requirements
• Our Tack Shop features high quality products from a wide range of Irish and International suppliers
• The Cavalier Stallion 'Chippison' - a Grade A International Show Jumper
• We provide Hunt Hirelings in association with the Clare Hunt Association - The season runs from November 1st to Mid March. We also arrange Hunting Holidays
• We offer Livery facilities with a range of options to suit the owners requirements
• We stage regular Events at Clare Equestrian and also coach our riders to this level and beyond
• We also offer students the opportunity to Train for their BHS Exams