SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding Center
  • ABOUT US
    • Benefits of Therapeutic Riding
    • LESSON INFO
    • Types of Programs
    • Testimonials
    • Our Board
    • News Letter
    • Gallery
    • HORSES
  • CONTACT US
    • Student Application
    • VET Program
    • Volunteer Form
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Mind. body. soul. 

What is Therapeutic Riding & Why does it work? ​

Therapeutic riding uses equine-assisted activities for the purpose of contributing positively to cognitive, physical,
emotional and social well-being of people with disabilities. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of health, education, sport, recreation and leisure. 
​​Throughout the world, there are thousands of individuals with special needs who experience the rewarding benefits of horseback riding. A disability does not have to limit a person from riding horses. In fact, experiencing the motion of a horse can be very therapeutic. Because horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. In addition to the therapeutic benefits and the ​great amount of confidence and self-esteem it builds, horseback riding also provides recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors in a unique way.
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Physical benefits

 Stretching of tight or spastic muscles

Increased range of motion of the joint

Reduction of abnormal movement patterns

Improved respiration and circulation

Sensory integration
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Psychological/​social benefits

  Improved self-confidence

    Development of patience

   Emotional control and self-discipline

    Expansion of the focus of control


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Educational benefits

   Sequencing, patterning, and motor planning

   Improved eye-hand coordination

​   Visual spatial perception

   Differentiation


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  • ABOUT US
    • Benefits of Therapeutic Riding
    • LESSON INFO
    • Types of Programs
    • Testimonials
    • Our Board
    • News Letter
    • Gallery
    • HORSES
  • CONTACT US
    • Student Application
    • VET Program
    • Volunteer Form
  • SPONSORS