How Therapeutic Horseback Riding Works

In a controlled environment, our students engage in activities on the horse that are both enjoyable and stimulating. The movement of the horse at a walk provides variable, rhythmic, and repetitive sensory input. The ensuing movement responses in the student are similar to a normal person's walking gait in the pelvis, trunk, and upper body. This movement helps build a foundation to improve neurological function and sensory processing. The action of the horse relaxes and stimulates unused muscles, increases joint mobility and improves balance and coordination.

Physical Benefits Include:

• Increases in normal muscle tone
• Postural stability and symmetry
• Trunk strengthening
• Stretching of select muscle groups
• Gentle mobilization of pelvis, spine and hip joints
• Improved fine motor skills

Cognitive Benefits Include:

• Improved concentration and discipline
• Improved speech functions
• Improved ability to establish one-on-one relationships