riding

What is Therapeutic Riding?

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History of Therapeutic Riding

References to the physical and emotional benefits of horseback riding date back to writings in the 1600s. However, when Liz Hartel of Denmark won the silver medal for dressage at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games -- despite having paralysis from polio -- medical and equine professionals took active notice. It wasn't long before therapeutic riding was being used for rehabilitation in England and then in North America. The first centers for therapeutic riding in North America began operation in the 1960s. NARHA, formed in 1969, consisted of four member centers and 60 individual members during its founding year. Today, the number of NARHA-affiliated centers and members has drastically increased to more than 550 centers and 3,200 individual members. There are more than 30,000 riders who take part in NARHA programs with the help of 1,100 instructors, 25,000 volunteers, 600 licensed therapists and 4,000 therapy horses.
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Who Can Ride?

Individuals of all ages, with a wide range of physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities benefit from therapeutic horseback riding and other equine activities. The types of disabilities and conditions served include:

Amputations
Autism
Brain Injuries
Cardiovascular Accident/Stroke
Cerebral Palsy
Down Syndrome
Emotional Disabilities
Hearing Impairments
Learning Disabilities
Mental Retardation
Multiple Sclerosis
Muscular Dystrophy
Post Polio Speech Impairments
Spina Bifida
Spinal Cord Injuries
Visual Impairments

Before participating in therapeutic horseback riding activities, individuals need to consult with their physicians. NARHA riding centers require each prospective rider to present a complete medical history and physician's statement signed by their physician prior to a therapeutic riding session.
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Benefits of Therapeutic Riding

The benefits of horseback riding are as numerous as the types of disabilities and conditions served. Research shows that students who participate in therapeutic riding can experience physical, emotional and mental rewards. Because horseback riding gently and 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.

For individuals with mental or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. The sense of independence found on horseback benefits all who ride. The therapeutic qualities of horseback riding are recognized by many medical professionals, including the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association.

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