[1][2] Movement sequences similar to those in show jumping or dressage are partly simulated in courses, without real horses being used.

[7] In Finland, the country of origin of the sport,[8] an annual national championship is held in addition to regional competitions.

[11] While the sport may be perceived more as a childish pastime by "real riders," Fred Sundwall, secretary general of the Finnish Equestrian Federation, views it positively: "We think it's just wonderful that hobby horsing has become a phenomenon and so popular."

"It gives kids and teenagers who don't have horses a chance to interact with them outside of stables and riding schools.

"[12][13] A 2022 article in the British equestrian magazine Horse & Hound said that in the UK hobbyhorsing takes place occasionally as a novelty charity fundraising or Pony Club event but that "hobbyhorse competitions are probably more likely to be seen as a bit of fun at a school sports day than as a serious competition".