Trotting Towards Wellness: The Therapeutic Benefits of Horse Riding for Individuals with Disabilities
There are numerous ways horse riding can benefit individuals with disabilities. It requires riders to adjust to the horse's swaying movements, aiding in proprioceptive and balance development. Riding a horse fosters active participation in rehabilitation efforts. The rhythmic impulses transmitted by the horse mimic natural walking motions, aiding in gait training.
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Today, horse riding is utilized for cognitive as well as neurological conditions, benefiting individuals with Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning or language disabilities, and multiple sclerosis, among others. Equine assisted activities are also effective for injury rehabilitation and stroke recovery. Its wide applicability stems from its non-weight-bearing nature, making it accessible to most individuals, and its mentally engaging and enjoyable qualities, fostering a sense of connection with the horse and nature.
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Moreover, horse riding offers physical benefits, such as enhancing core stability, reducing spasms, and improving coordination, balance, and posture. Many riders express feelings of peace and joy after engaging in this activity.
Mounted Programs
Therapeutic Horseback Riding Lessons:
Our nationally certified therapeutic riding instructors lead lessons tailored for recreational, educational, and therapeutic purposes. Each student receives individualized goals and tasks aimed at fostering independence.
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Group Lessons: Classes typically consist of no more than four riders. This ensures direct supervision and interaction with our instructors and volunteers, while also providing a social component essential to any extracurricular activity.
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Private Lessons: Reserved for students who are either significantly advanced beyond group instruction or require personalized attention and tailored lesson plans due to specific needs. Approval from our Executive Director is necessary for private lessons.
Unmounted Programs
Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies:
Our trained staff conducts these sessions, catering to individuals who may not safely mount a horse, surpass our 180-pound weight limit, or seek alternative ways to engage with horses. Participants will learn fundamental ground-based horse care techniques such as grooming, bathing, and feeding, while experiencing the enriching bond between human and animal in a secure and therapeutic setting.