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Polo is one of those rare sports that combines elegance, strategy, athleticism, and a deep bond with the horse. For those who’ve played before—or always wished they had—returning to the field can be more than just picking up a mallet: it’s rekindling a connection to a tradition, a rush of speed, and a test of one’s horsemanship. If it's been some time since you last swung a mallet or felt the rush of chasing a ball thrown at 100 km/h, Argentina offers one of the best possible re-entry points. And in particular, the Argentina Polo School in Mar del Plata stands out as a welcoming, professional place to get back into the game.
Polo is often described as “chess on horseback,” and not without reason:
Horsemanship & Teamwork: It’s not just you and the mallet—you develop a partnership with the pony, learn timing, balance, anticipation.
Physical & Mental Skills: Riding demands coordination, core and leg strength; playing demands split-second decision making, spatial awareness.
Tradition & Culture: In places like Argentina, polo isn't just a sport—it’s a way of life, steeped in history, social gatherings, and rural landscapes.
For those who haven’t played in a while, there can be hesitations: am I too rusty? Can I keep up physically? Will I feel embarrassed in front of advanced players? The right environment can make a huge difference.
Argentina is, for many lovers of the sport, polo’s spiritual home. It has produced some of the greatest players in history, breeds many of the best polo ponies, and its clubs, fields, tournaments are of world-class calibre. The passion for polo there isn’t just from spectators—it’s ingrained in the land, in ranches, in the culture of horse-riding. So coming back in Argentina means doing so in a place where expertise, pride, and resources are deeply rooted.
If you’re thinking about getting back into polo after years away, here’s why the Argentina Polo School, based in Mar del Plata, might just be the ideal choice:
All levels welcome
Whether you’re a complete beginner, or someone who played years ago and wants to sharpen up, they offer lessons and training for every level.
Personalized coaching
Skill refresher sessions (equitation, swing, rules, strategies) are tailored. This helps people build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
Beautiful location & great setting
The school operates in Mar del Plata, using the facilities of the Mar del Plata Polo Club in Parque Camet. The infrastructure (fields, stables, horses) is solid. It’s not just about training—it’s training in an environment that inspires.
Opportunities to play, not just train
It’s one thing to practice drills; it’s another to play real chukkas (periods of polo games). Argentina Polo School offers match practice, tournaments, so you get back into the rhythm of actual play.
Supportive culture
For someone returning, the chance to be among others at the same stage—or instructors used to helping people rebuild their skills—makes a big difference. According to their mission, Argentina Polo School aims to foster polo for all skill levels and ages.
If you decide to get back in, here are some practical tips to make the transition smoother:
Start with basics: horsemanship, balance, riding fitness can erode over time. Don’t rush into hard chukkas without refreshing your riding.
Physical prep: Leg and core strength, balance exercises, cardiovascular fitness will help avoid injury.
Mental readiness: Expect some awkwardness. Don’t compare yourself to full-time players; allow room for mistakes.
Proper gear & safety: Helmet, boots, gloves, good saddle/horses. Safety first.
Consistent practice: A few lessons plus regular practice rides are better than one intense week.
Polo can feel like it exists in a rarified world—but in places like Mar del Plata and through schools like Argentina Polo School, it also becomes accessible again for those who stepped away. If you’ve got the desire, even if your swing is rusty, this is a place that can help you find your way back onto the field in style, with the right care, good horses, and a community that understands both the challenge and joy of returning to this magnificent sport.