Horse riding is more than just a sport; it is a Sunnah, a practice beloved by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In Islam, physical activity is not only encouraged but also seen as a way to maintain a strong and healthy body. Among the various forms of exercise, horse riding holds a special place in Islamic tradition.
Sumayya Omar, a member of the Newcastle Women’s Forum, highlights this connection in a recent interview with Salaamedia, stating: “Physical activity is encouraged by Islam. One of the main physical activities that is loved by Rasulullah (SAW) is horse riding”.
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Beyond its physical benefits, horse riding offers a deeper sense of discipline, purpose and connection. It is not just about mastering control over an animal but also about developing patience, resilience and trust. Omar emphasises how sports, including horse riding, provide a meaningful escape from the distractions of modern life:
“Sports is a healthy way to cope. It gives you a sense of purpose. It gives you a sense of encouragement. It gives you a sense of enlightenment. The most beautiful part of it is that it doesn’t allow you to follow fashion and a trend,” she said.
In today’s fast-paced, globalised world, where trends and modernity often dictate lifestyles, horse riding offers a timeless refuge. It is a reminder of the past, of the way Islam spread and flourished with the aid of these noble animals. Omar reflects on this historical significance:
“We are living in a world that is shaped by modernity. It’s a globalised, liberal world, where you have to keep up. One of the greatest gifts my parents could have gotten was the gift of the horse. A horse is a friend, it’s your companion … It was central to the rise of Islam because it was a means of propagating Islam.”
For those looking to reconnect with this beautiful Sunnah, horse riding is more than a sport—it is a spiritual and historical journey. To explore this topic further, watch to the discussion below”
Image: Hallvard Kolltveit
