THERAPEUTIC RIDING PROGRAM
Therapeutic Riding is an activity on horseback that positively contributes to the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well being of individuals with adaptive needs. It provides benefit in the areas of therapy, educational sport, recreation, and leisure.
A disability does not have to limit a person’s ability to ride horses. In fact, experiencing the motion of a horse can be very therapeutic.
%
of individuals in El Paso County have a disability
“This has been a wonderful experience!”
Our therapeutic riding program teaches horseback-riding skills, while using therapeutic activities tailored to each individual rider’s educational, physical, social, and recreational goals.
Horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to the movement created when walking. For individuals who are unable to walk or have difficulty walking, therapeutic riding can provide the same physical and neurological stimulation that walking would normally provide. The horse human bond that is created during lessons, and the social interactions and group participation that our riders experience are beneficial for cognitive growth.
“With riding horses I went from it being difficult to walk to being able to walk good. I wanted to ride a bike but my balance was off. Now I’m riding a bike! Therapeutic Riding at PPTRC has helped me out a lot and it’s fun.”
Therapeutic Riding can be beneficial for individuals with a wide range of diagnoses include (but are not limited to):
Muscular Dystrophy
ADD/ADHD
Multiple Sclerosis
Visual Impairment
Down Syndrome
Spina Bifida
Emotional Disorders
Spinal Cord Injuries
Learning Disabilities
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Cerebral Palsy
Sensory Integration
Developmental Delay
The benefits of Therapeutic Riding include (but are not limited to):
Promotes Strength
Increases Flexibility
Develops Balance
Improves Coordination
Helps Breathing
Improves Coping Skills
Builds Self-Confidence
Improves Social Skills
Improves Posture
Develops Gross and Fine Motor Skills
A PATH Intl certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor conducts all Therapeutic Riding lessons. The majority of our lessons are held in a group setting with 2-3 riders in a class, but individual lessons are available upon request or upon recommendation of the instructor. A horse leader and two side walkers, if necessary, accompany all riders.
Clients must be 4 years old or older to participate in our Therapeutic Riding Program.