The benefits of riding for those with disabilities have been recognized for over 3,000 years, and were first recorded by Hippocrates (c. 460 – 377 B.C.). The concept of riding as therapy to improve the lives of people with disabilities developed in the early 1900’s in England, Germany and Scandinavia, but was brought to the world’s attention at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, when Danish rider Liz Hartel, crippled by polio and confined to a wheelchair when not on the back of a horse, won the silver medal for dressage.
Today, therapeutic riding and other safe, purposeful and supervised interaction with horses are medically recognized to benefit children and adults with almost any cognitive, physical and/or emotional disability.
Physical Benefits include:
- Increased pelvic and spine mobility
- Improved balance
- Improved coordination
- Improved strength
- Increased postural control
- Increased physical stamina
- Increased range of motion in joints and limbs
Cognitive Benefits include:
- Improved communication skills
- Improved verbalization
- Increased attention span
- Improved education
Emotional Benefits include:
- Improved confidence and self-esteem
- Sense of accomplishment
- Increased social interaction
