Therapeutic Riding
Adaptive horseback riding for strength, balance, and joy.
What Is Therapeutic Riding?
Therapeutic riding is an adaptive horseback riding program designed for individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities. Unlike equine-assisted therapy, therapeutic riding focuses on riding skills, horsemanship, and the physical benefits of being on horseback.
Our PATH-certified instructors tailor each lesson to the rider's abilities, using specialized equipment and techniques to ensure safety and maximize the benefits of every session.
How It Differs from Equine-Assisted Therapy
Therapeutic Riding
- • Focus on riding skills and horsemanship
- • Led by PATH-certified riding instructors
- • Physical goals: balance, strength, coordination
- • Participants learn to ride independently over time
- • Group or individual lessons available
Equine-Assisted Therapy
- • Focus on emotional, cognitive, and behavioral goals
- • Led by licensed mental health professionals
- • May or may not involve riding
- • Treatment plan with measurable clinical objectives
- • Always individual sessions
Physical Benefits
The rhythmic motion of a horse closely mimics the human gait, stimulating muscles, improving posture, and building core strength. Riders also develop better balance, coordination, flexibility, and spatial awareness — all while having fun.
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