Kaley Cuoco’s Favorite Hobby Is A Workout For Your Mind And Body
By Claudine BaughSept. 1, 2026 8:17 am EST
Aside from being one of the highest-paid TV stars in Hollywood history, Kaley Cuoco also has a knack for turning her hobbies into something bigger. Her love of music led to the release of an iTunes single, while a childhood pastime eventually saw her become a nationally ranked amateur tennis player as a teen
But it doesn’t end there. “I’m an equestrian, I love horses,” Cuoco told “The Talk” in 2018, per Business Insider. “I’d actually really like to challenge myself a little bit more in that area.” Despite suffering a serious horse-riding accident in 2010 that almost resulted in amputating her leg, Cuoco was adamant about getting back to her true passion and making a name for herself in the show-jumping circuit. A short time after, the actor (equestrian, rather) was back to competing in horse shows and outperforming seasoned jockeys in show-jumping competitions.
Over the years, Cuoco has continued to be an avid rider and remains deeply involved in the equestrian world. Through her private ranch and equestrian property “Big Bay City” in Southern California, which also doubles as an animal sanctuary, she owns multiple horses and keeps up with riding as a regular workout for her mind and body. “I have said it before, and I will say it again: I want to be known as a good and respectful rider who adores her horses and adores the sport,” she told Sidelines Magazine. “And if then they realize, ‘Oh, she’s on that TV show,’ that’s cool, too.”
Mind and body benefits of Cuoco’s favorite hobby
Kaley Cuoco credits her equestrian lifestyle with helping her stay grounded. “It’s become a very important part of my life, very serious. It kind of levels me out with this whole Hollywood thing,” Cuoco told Jimmy Kimmel in 2016 (per TheThings). “Horseback riding is why I’m so centered, especially in this business. I wouldn’t have my career without it.”
Horseback riding — an essential part of equine therapy — has a profound impact on the health of humans. According to research highlighted by Lincourt Stables, riding and spending time with horses can help lower cortisol levels while increasing mood-boosting chemicals like endorphins and serotonin. Over time, forming a close bond with horses can also release oxytocin, which may foster a renewed sense of hope, purpose, and overall well-being — therefore helping to overcome the physical toll of anxiety and depression. Equine therapy also helps build core strength, balance, and improves cardiovascular fitness through riding, walking, and grooming horses.
For Cuoco, riding is also a confidence booster. In a 2025 Instagram post announcing her horse Volcan’s retirement, she thanked him for helping her believe in herself and taking her equestrian career to great heights. “He took me into my first large Grand Prix class, something I never thought I would do, and proceeded to let me experience a high level of show jumping I could really only dream of,” she wrote, adding, “I will never forget the feeling of flying with Volcan.”
