Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic Riding lessons are equestrian skill-based lessons for children and adults with disabilities. The focus of the lessons is skill development and progression while improving the rider’s physical, cognitive, emotional and/or social skills. Helping the rider reach their full potential is of paramount importance. Taught by a certified therapeutic riding instructor, and assisted by volunteer aids, the lessons offered are group, semi-private or private and are 45 minutes to 1 hour long. As much as possible, the riders participate in pre-mounted and post-mounted horse care. Riders that have physical, intellectual, cognitive, developmental, and learning differences can benefit from Therapeutic Riding. Benefits of therapeutic riding include can include improvements in the following areas:

  • Balance
  • Muscle strength
  • Physical endurance
  • Range of motion
  • Circulation
  • Respiration
  • Sensorimotor integration
  • Help to activate weak brain areas
  • Confidence
  • Motivation
  • Human Animal bonding skills
  • Social skills
  • Responsiveness and adaptability
  • Flexibility

A simple way to differentiate between Hippotherapy and therapeutic riding is to think of Hippotherapy (treatment with the help of a horse from the Greek word hippos, meaning horse) as the horse controlling the movement of the student. In therapeutic riding, the student controls the movement of the horse.

Donate to ManeGait

ManeGait is graciously accepting donations from our Wish List or our secure Online Donation Form.

Work With Us

ManeGait is looking for horse enthusiasts to fill both our volunteer positions and paid positions.

Testimonials

"Mrs. Darling, I want to thank you and your husband for what you have done, with the Mane Gait. Its rare you see someone committed and taking on a hands on approach to giving..."

Copyright 2007-2008 ManeGait. All Rights Reserved.
Site donated by Avalon Consulting, LLC.