Arena Polo Spectating Guide

Watching polo, especially in the arena, is one of the most exciting ways to experience equestrian sport.

Arena polo brings the speed, teamwork, and precision of outdoor polo into a smaller, enclosed space, putting fans right at the heart of the action in this storied sport.

Understanding the Game

Arena polo is played with three players per team in a dirt or sand arena (typically 300 feet long by 150 feet wide) surrounded by boards. The larger plastic ball, similar to a mini soccer ball, bounces off the sides, keeping play fast and continuous. The game consists of four to six periods, called chukkers, each lasting about 7½ minutes with a half time in the middle of the match.

Because the space is smaller, arena polo focuses on close control, quick decision-making, and horse agility. Every second counts, and spectators can easily follow the rhythm of play from just a few feet away.

Scoring

Each goal made counts as 1 point, unless it’s scored from the 25-yard line or further, in which case it’s worth 2 points. Points can also be awarded for certain fouls, a Penalty 1 indicates an infraction that prevented a likely goal and results in an automatic point for the fouled team.

Before the Match

Arrive early to find a great viewing spot. Most matches last around 90 minutes.
Dress comfortably but with a touch of equestrian flair, boots, hats, and sunglasses fit right in.
Grab a drink, enjoy the social atmosphere, and get ready for fast-paced action.

During Play

Watch for the constant teamwork between riders and horses. Each player plays offense and defense.
When the whistle blows, it’s usually for a foul or penalty shot, an exciting chance to score.
Cheer for both teams’ skillful plays, polo values sportsmanship and respect.
Notice how players use ride-offs to gain position and how mallet control shapes every shot.

Key Terms

Chukker – a period of play.
Handicap – a player’s rating from -1 (beginner) to 10 (world-class).
Line of the ball – the invisible right-of-way that determines who has priority.
Ride-off – when players use their horses’ body to ride off another player to claim the line of the ball.

After the Match

Fans are often invited to meet players, greet the horses, and take photos. Polo has deep roots in camaraderie and tradition, and many players enjoy sharing their love of the game with newcomers.

From the thunder of hooves to the precision of each swing, arena polo delivers thrilling, up-close action that showcases the best of equestrian sport, making every match a truly unforgettable experience.

Two polo players wearing helmets and athletic gear riding horses during a match, with other players and spectators in the background.

Aerial view of a horse riding center, with an entrance gate labeled 'Equestrian Center,' a winding driveway lined with bushes, surrounded by trees, buildings, and mountains in the background at sunset.

Two polo players riding horses compete during a match; the player in front wears a helmet, glasses, a blue and purple jersey, and white pants, holding a mallet raised in the air as the two players are in a ride off to get to the ball.

Two polo players on horseback competing for a white ball on a dirt field, with a chain-link fence and trees in the background.

A table at a horse racing or polo event decorated with strawberries, green grapes, champagne glasses, floral centerpiece, two baseball caps, and gold napkin holders with napkins, set against an outdoor racetrack with fences and flags.

Two polo players on horseback competing for the ball during a match at a polo field, with spectators watching behind a white fence.

A polo player wearing a black cap and sunglasses riding a chestnut horse as they chase a white polo ball on a sandy field.

Spectators sitting on bleachers watching an event outdoors.

Two polo players compete for the ball during a match, riding horses and using mallets to hit the ball while spectators watch in the background.

White horse stable with large green letters spelling 'POLO' on the side, surrounded by bushes and gravel pathway, with trees in the background and a clear blue sky.

Sunset over Los Angeles skyline with tall palm trees, residential neighborhoods, and colorful autumn trees in the foreground.

Silhouette of a polo player riding a horse, holding a mallet, with the text 'POLO PLAYERS SUPPORT GROUP' underneath.