When you’re an in-demand model or an actor with a grueling schedule, how do you escape it all? Gisele Bundchen, Jared Leto and Justin Bieber are just a few of the stars who know that horsing around is a great way to unwind. We have proof positive that these bold-faced names make riding a priority despite their busy lifestyles. Some, like Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting and Christy Turlington, who have been riding since their youth, also happen to be in great shape. Coincidence? While it’s no mystery that equine therapy is transformative and healing for the mind, hopping on a horse also has some added physical benefits. “Horseback riding can increase aerobic fitness and improve muscular strength without feeling like traditional exercise,” Melissa Mellady, MS, Exercise Physiologist, Northwestern Executive Health at Northwestern Medical Group tells LivingHealthy. But before you saddle up, make sure you get your core in tip-top shape. “The stronger your core and your lower body muscles, the stronger a rider you will be.” Along with the emotional benefits, horseback riding seems to be great for strengthening your body while your mind powers down.