Research Studies

Texas Woman’s University Research Study at ManeGait

From 2015 to 2017, Texas Woman’s University conducted the first of its kind research study with 25 special needs children at ManeGait. Each child exhibited sensory processing dysfunction associated with disorders including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Intellectual Disability, among others. All participants were new to therapeutic riding. The study measured motor skill improvements as a result of participation in ManeGait’s Therapeutic Riding program and additional outcomes when the GaitWay to the Brain program was incorporated.

Below is the complete research study published in the Frontiers of Veterinary Science:

• Changes in Motor Skill Proficiency After Equine-Assisted Activities and Brain-Building Tasks in Youth With Neurodevelopmental Disorders - January 31, 2020

The following news articles feature the study and reported outcomes:

• Horseback riding, mental exercises improve motor skills in children with autism, ADHD - February 13, 2020

• Horse riding plus brain-building exercises may help kids with autism, ADHD - February 26, 2020