Hobby horsing is a hobby that originated in Finland and involves using hobby horses, also known as stick horses, to simulate movement sequences similar to those in show jumping or dressage. It is a hobby with gymnastic elements and competitions, but without real horses being used. The hobby is particularly popular with girls and young women between the ages of 12 and 18 years and is gaining popularity beyond the other Nordic countries in other parts of Europe. Most hobby horses are sewn by hand and are usually made of two halves of the head, which have an opening on the lower side, and a strip in the middle and filled with:
- Characteristics: Mixed-sex, hobby with competitions
- Equipment: Hobby horse
- Presence: Country or region, originated in Finland
- Olympic: Not yet considered
While the hobby may be perceived more as a childish pastime by "real riders," it is viewed positively by some equestrian enthusiasts as it gives kids and teenagers who dont have horses a chance to interact with them outside of stables and riding schools. In the UK, hobby horsing takes place occasionally as a novelty charity fundraising or Pony Club event, but hobbyhorse competitions are probably more likely to be seen as a bit of fun at a school sports day than as a serious competition. The hobby had spread to Australia by 2016.
