Horseback riding benefits are as numerous as the types of disabilities and conditions served. It is a well known fact that the movement of the horse often improves flexibility, balance and muscle strength in riders with physical disabilities. Riding is also a mental activity and the cognitive benefits are evident as well. The horse is the motivation to learn new things. Through horses autistic children are able to focus and hyper-active children learn to quiet themselves.
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Horses are great teachers. Working with horses teaches challenged children, responsibility, empathy, self-esteem and horsemanship skills. Bonding with the horse can provide the opportunity for them to experience emotional growth, establish trust and respect with the animal, and gain a sense of accomplishment with the mastery of their own skills. This type of experience is difficult to duplicate anywhere else.
Relationships are developed between riders, volunteers, horses and staff which are integral to a positive emotional experience.