Horse polo
Added 23.1.2026 15:31.20 Views count 37
Horse polo is one of the most dynamic and technically demanding equestrian disciplines. It combines speed, agility, precise horse control and teamwork. Often referred to as the "equestrian sport of kings", polo is now available to modern riders at both the competitive and recreational levels.
What is horse polo
Polo is a team equestrian sport in which riders on horses (so-called polo ponies) use a long stick - a mallet to hit a ball and try to score a goal into the opponent's goal. The game is played at a high pace and requires perfect coordination between the rider and the horse.
History of polo riding
Origin in Persia (approx. 6th century BC)
Expansion to India, Asia and Europe
The modern form originated in England
Today popular mainly in:
Argentina
Great Britain
USA
Basic principles of polo riding
Speed and agility
Safety of players and horses
Fair play
Precise control of the horse with one hand
Teamwork
The rider holds the reins in his left hand and the mallet in his right.
How polo is used (how the game is played)
A team has 4 players
A match is divided into chukkas (parts of the game)
Each chukker lasts about 7 minutes
The teams switch sides after each goal
Players have a handicap (0–10) that reflects their level
Types of polo
1. Lawn polo (Outdoor polo)4
The most classic form.
Advantages:
Fast and dynamic game
Prestigious discipline
Disadvantages:
Requires space
High costs
2. Arena polo
Played in a fenced area.
Advantages:
Smaller field
More accessible to beginners
Fewer horses per player
Disadvantages:
Less space
Harder surface
3. Snow polo
Played on snow.
Advantages:
Less strain on the hooves
Attractive to spectators
Disadvantages:
Weather-dependent
Limited season
4. Beach polo
On sand.
Advantages:
Soft surface
Less risk of injury
Disadvantages:
Quick fatigue of horses
Non-standard conditions
Horses in polo riding (polo ponies)
Qualities of the ideal polo horse
speed
agility
courage
calm head
quick reaction
Argentine polo ponies (thoroughbred crosses) are most often used.
Polo riding equipment
Horse equipment
Special polo saddle
Protective bandages
Bells
Martingale
Simple bridle
Rider equipment
Protective helmet
Knee pads
Gloves
Polo whip
Mallet
Benefits of polo riding
Excellent rider fitness
Development of quick reactions
Perfect horse control
Team sport
Attractive and dynamic
Disadvantages and risks
High risk of injuries
Financially demanding
Requires more horses
Time-consuming preparation
How to choose polo training?
Consider:
club availability
financial possibilities
physical fitness
riding experience
Polo is suitable for riders who:
✔ have a good seat
can handle speed
like team sports
Most common mistakes of beginners
Poor control of the horse with one hand
Incorrect holding of the mallet
Underestimating safety
Insufficient training of the horse
Polo riding is a fast, adrenaline-filled and technically demanding equestrian sport that tests the courage, fitness and skills of the rider. With proper training and respect for the horses, it offers a unique experience and strong sporting emotions.