Therapeutic horseback riding

Therapeutic horseback riding means horses are used for physical therapy, emotional growth and learning for adults and children. Some physical benefits of therapeutic horseback riding are stretching of increased range of motion of joints, improvement of respiration, circulation, appetite and digestion. Therapeutic horseback riding also causes the brain to send relaxation messages to the muscles. This is due to the movement pattern of the horse. Horses rhythmically move their bodies similar to the way a human walks. The stimulation of human walking helps the disabled by improving muscle strength, posture, balance, coordination and more. The small muscles, joints, back, hips, legs, buttocks, knees and ankles will tone up.

Good balance and posture are important when you ride a horse. The rider’s core muscles or muscles along the spine will be strengthened from the horse’s movements so posture will be better. Tight muscles or muscle spasms can be reduced by the motion of the horse’s body which will improve coordination in all the muscle groups. Muscles will be developed and help with balance. Exercising while riding the horse helps balance and posture for those with or without disabilities. Some balance exercises include sitting on the horse, walking and trotting.

Cognitive and sensory disabilities can also be helped with riding lessons or therapeutic horseback riding. Riding a horse requires the rider to pay attention, remember things and use reasoning ability. The task of riding a horse will eventually give the rider intellectual stimulation form the skills they learn. They also can be motivated to develop language skills. Psychological benefits include self-confidence and emotional control and self discipline. Riders learn to stay calm or composed while their on a horse even if the horse is not doing what they want. This helps develop patience and a feeling of control because of the connection between action and reaction. Anyone being treated for a problem with therapeutic horseback riding should always wear a helmet for safety reasons.