Equestrianism prices: costs and rates in France

Riding is very popular in France, loved by millions of people. However, it is often seen as expensive. This comes from the costs for horses and equipment. We will look at the costs of riding in France to help you plan your budget.

Key Points to Remember

• Riding is the 3rd most practiced sport in France, with significant costs.
• The fees include club membership, federal license, and rider equipment.
• Course rates vary according to level and region, with annual or à la carte options.
• Clinics, trails, and competitions incur additional costs.
• There are tips to reduce the budget, such as special offers or buying second-hand.

Introduction

Riding is very popular in France, ranking third after football and tennis in 2022. However, it is often seen as a sport with a high horse cost. This comes from the costs of maintaining horses and the necessary equipment.

It is crucial to understand the different expense items. This helps to better plan your budget for riding practiced in France.

Popularity of Riding in France

In France, riding is widely practiced with over 700,000 license holders. It ranks third after football and tennis. This popularity comes from the variety of disciplines, such as dressage, endurance, and show jumping.

Costly Reputation of This Sport

Despite its popularity, riding is often seen as a luxury sport. This is due to the high horse cost. The costs for maintaining horses, equipment, and services can be high.

The Different Types of Expenses in Riding

To engage in riding, one must account for several expenses. The club membership fees cover the costs of the facility. The mandatory federal license includes insurance and validates exams. The rider equipment is a significant investment, especially for beginners.

Club Membership Fees

Membership in a riding club is essential. The riding club fees range from 200 to 500 euros per year. This depends on the facility and the services offered.

Mandatory Federal License

The federation riding license is necessary to ride a horse. Its cost ranges from 30 to 100 euros per year. This depends on the level and the options chosen (insurance, exams, etc.).

Rider Equipment

The rider equipment cost is a significant investment, especially for beginners. You should expect to spend between 500 and 2,000 euros. This includes a helmet, boots, pants, a jacket, etc.

In conclusion, the expenses for riding include membership fees, the federal license, and equipment. These costs can quickly add up, especially for beginners.

The Cost of Riding Lessons

Riding lessons are a major expense for horse enthusiasts. The price varies according to the rider's level and the region. On average, riding lesson rates cost between 30 and 60 euros per hour. This depends on the rider level price and location.

Clubs offer subscription plans for riding annually or 10 to 20-hour cards. These options are better for riders who come often. They reduce the hourly cost and offer a tailored program.

Rates According to Level and Region

The price of lessons varies greatly depending on the rider's level and region. Beginners pay less than experienced riders. Beginners receive special attention and guidance.

Lessons are more expensive in major cities like Paris or Lyon. On average, they cost 40 euros per hour in large urban areas. However, in rural areas, the price is 30 euros per hour.

Annual or À La Carte Plans

Clubs offer annual subscription plans to reduce costs. This provides a favorable hourly rate, between 25 and 35 euros. It is ideal for regular riders.

Occasional riders can choose 10 or 20-hour cards. These cards are more flexible but cost a bit more, between 35 and 45 euros per hour.

Riding Price: More Details

Equestrian activities offer more than just weekly lessons. Clinics during holidays cost between 50 and 70 euros per day. Day-long horseback rides range from 60 to 150 euros.

More experienced riders pay to participate in official competitions. Registration fees range from 35 to 80 euros. You should also consider the costs of competition attire, starting at 100 euros.

Cost of Clinics and Trails

• Clinic riding rates: between 50 and 70 euros per day
• Trail riding cost: between 60 and 150 euros per day

Competition Fees

1. Competition registration price: between 35 and 80 euros
2. Competition attire: minimum 100 euros

Riding, whether for improvement or competition, involves various costs. You must consider expenses outside of regular lessons.

Tips to Reduce Riding Budget

Riding can be expensive, but there are ways to make it less costly. Here are some useful tips:

Take Advantage of Clubs' Promotional Offers

Riding clubs often offer promotional offers at the start of the school year or during holidays. This is perfect for reducing your riding budget by taking advantage of these special offers.

Rent or Buy Second-Hand Equipment

Choosing to rent or buy second-hand equipment is a good idea to reduce costs. This will help you make savings on your riding budget.

Join a Local Association

Riding associations are an excellent option to reduce expenses. They often offer benefits such as preferential rates on lessons or equipment purchases.

By applying these tips, you will be able to manage your riding budget while continuing to enjoy this sport.

Horse Boarding: A Significant Investment

Practicing riding in a club avoids the costs of owning a horse. Becoming a horse owner is a significant investment. The purchase, maintenance (food, veterinary care, shoeing, etc.), and horse boarding cost increase the budget for riders.

The cost of horse boarding cost varies by region and services. It can range from a few hundred to over a thousand euros per month. You should consider these costs before becoming a horse owner. You need to budget for the animal, its food, care, and housing.

Additional expenses such as transportation, insurance, or equipment (saddle, bridle, etc.) increase the costs. Owning a horse can become very expensive for some.

There are solutions to reduce costs, such as sharing ownership or renting a horse. However, you need to carefully assess your finances before committing to horse boarding cost and becoming a horse owner.

Conclusion

Practicing riding in France requires a well-thought-out budget. The costs of lessons, equipment, and competitions can add up. However, there are ways to reduce these expenses.

Practical tips such as looking for special offers or buying second-hand help. Joining an association can also be beneficial. It is important to know your budget well and find where to save.

By being organized and flexible, riding becomes accessible to everyone. It is a sport that offers emotions and unique experiences. It is important to discover and share it.