Therapeutic Riding: An Adaptive Sport with Many Benefits

There are sometimes misconceptions about what therapeutic riding is. Is it therapy? Is it a pony ride? The best way to help clear up any misunderstanding is to tell you what therapeutic riding IS.

Therapeutic riding teaches horsemanship skills…

Therapeutic riding, also known as adaptive riding, is an adaptive recreational activity designed for many ages and abilities. The main goal of these lessons is to teach horsemanship skills. Just like in adaptive skiing, the participant is learning how to ski in a way that suits their needs and abilities, therapeutic riding teaches horseback riding and related horsemanship skills.

Therapeutic riding instructors are NOT therapists…

Therapeutic riding instructors are trained and certified in the adaptive sport of therapeutic riding. While they are knowledgeable about different conditions and how horseback riding can benefit them, instructors are NOT practicing therapists.

Therapeutic riding has therapeutic benefits…

Wait… You just told you that instructors are not therapists but now therapeutic riding is therapeutic? Yes! Just like a relaxing walk outside or the scent of lavender can be considered “therapeutic” so can therapeutic riding. Horses, and the equine environment in general, provide a plethora of opportunities for participants to see benefits. Some of these benefits include improvements in:

• Balance, posture, and coordination

• Muscle tightness

• Strength of core muscles necessary for walking

• Cognition and motor planning

• Vestibular, circulatory, and nervous system functions

• Sensory processing skills

• SO MANY MORE.

Therapeutic (adaptive) riding is a benefit to so many people in so many walks of life. Because it is considered an adaptive sport, participants get to learn a new, fun, rewarding sport all while seeing therapeutic benefits. The empowering experience of riding a horse is unmatched by any other adaptive sport.

Instruction vs. Games

Every instructor is different and every therapeutic riding lesson is different. However, each lesson can basically be broken down into instruction and games/activities. Some lessons may contain more instruction than games or vice versa. It really depends on the riding skill and the rider.

Instruction

The instruction portion of riding lessons involves the What's, Why's, and How's of the riding skill.  Riding skills are the core of our lessons, and these three areas help our riders to understand the riding skill on a deeper level and create more successful equestrians.

Games

This is where a riding skill can be applied in an engaging way. Games and activities can come in many different forms and use various teaching tools based on the needs of the rider. These games and activities are always facilitated by the instructor and focus on the goals of the rider.

Example Riding Skill and Relevant Game

Riding Skill: Halting

What: Stopping your horse

Why: It's important to be able to halt your horse so you have more control and independence while riding.

How: Pull back your reins to your hips and say "woah"

Relevant Game: Red Light, Green Light Activity

Games vs. Instruction

It's important to realize that the games and activities that we provide during lessons do not replace riding instruction. In fact, these games and activities serve to enhance the learning of riding skills. The games and activities always have a core purpose. They allow the rider to practice their riding skills in a fun and rewarding way. For some, activities grant an extra layer of complexity (such as a riding pattern) that will keep them challenged in their lessons. For others, a game might be a great way to keep the rider mentally engaged in performing their riding skills by incorporating elements that the rider is familiar with outside of riding lessons.

Tracking Riders' Progress

Here at Hilltop Horizons, we love to see our riders grow and succeed through our program - but how exactly is this tracked when each rider has vastly unique goals?

Initial Evaluation

This process begins during the rider's very visit to Hilltop Horizons. Each student undergoes a preliminary evaluation that allows our instructor to gauge their strengths and areas of difficulty. This allows us to determine the type of horse, tack, and support needed to make therapeutic riding lessons successful for this individual. The evaluation also serves as a great time to start forming goals for the rider. We discuss with the rider and their family areas where they would like to improve in their life. The instructor then takes this information and transforms it into goal-oriented horsemanship tasks. For example, if one of the rider's goals is to improve their communication skills, one of the first things we would work on would be verbally and non-verbally telling their horse to "walk on" and "woah".

Progress Notes

After each therapeutic riding lesson, the instructor will write progress notes on that session. These will include if the objective of the lesson was met, strengths and weaknesses of the lesson, and ideas for how to move forward in future lessons. Continuing with the example from above, a rider who was working on communication and had mastered cuing their horse to "walk on" and "woah", would then move to a goal such as communicating to their volunteers where they want to steer their horse in the arena. In this way, the rider is building on their communication and moving to interpersonal interactions.

The overall purpose of the evaluation and progress notes is to create a long term goal and work towards it through a series of short term goals. The goals and needs of the rider are constantly re-evaluated and changed as needed in order to create the most cultivating and successful experience for each rider.

What is Equine Assisted Learning?

I wanted to switch gears this week and talk a little bit about another branch of Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) that may be beneficial to some members of our community. In addition to the population that is traditionally served in therapeutic riding, Equine Assisted Learning is offered to an even larger breadth of individuals.

What is Equine Assisted Learning?

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) involves a series of unmounted horsemanship activities. These are often completed individually or in a larger group setting and focus on problem solving and team building exercises. In some cases, EAL sessions may focus on horsemanship activities that can't be done on horseback, such as bathing or leading the horse. In others, a group may use the horse as a means to a deeper understanding of themselves as individuals.

What are the benefits?

Horses are strong, independent, and emotionally expressive animals. Learning how they respond to your actions is often very eye opening to participants as they begin to realize the impact their actions may have on this animal (and people they interact with). Learning the nonverbal communication that horses use translates well to body language that we present to the people around us.

In addition to the increase in self-awareness, equine assisted learning can have an array of other benefits. There are countless educational, problem solving, team building, and fun activities that participants can be a part of to further their knowledge of themselves, their group, the horse, and the environment around them.

Group vs. Individual Therapeutic Riding Lessons

In general, therapeutic riding lessons can be taught in two formats - group or individual. Understanding the key differences between the two is important for determining the best type of lesson for each rider.

Group Lessons

I think there is often a perception that group lessons are simply designed to fit more lessons into one time frame. While we do strive to serve as many clients as possible, we would never do that at the expense of the quality of our service. Group lessons are both enriching and engaging to our riders, despite of (and often because of) sharing the lesson with another rider.

Riders are always placed in groups that the instructor believes will foster a healthy environment for growth and learning for all parties involved. Often this means the riders in a group will have similar goals and skill sets to succeed. Because of this, all riders are taught to their level and ability. Often times, each rider may even have different objectives in a lesson that are suited to their individual skill level, regardless of another rider's riding level.

Having a group of riders in a lesson cultivates an environment that promotes teamwork, modeling of skills, and some friendly competition. All of these things often help to motivate riders to work hard and have fun at the same time. In addition to this, many of our riders benefit from facilitated social interaction with a peer group. What better way to bond than over horseback riding?

Individual Lessons

Individual lessons involve one-on-one attention between instructor and rider. This is sometimes preferred when a rider needs direct intervention from the instructor for much of the lesson for postural or behavioral corrections. Often, individual lessons are chosen by an instructor for a few weeks until the rider becomes comfortable with their role as an equestrian, and the sidewalkers and horse leader are comfortable with the level of guidance that they need to provide. This could also be a chosen lesson format for a rider who is training for a riding event, such as a horse show.

Whether riding in group or individual lessons, every riding center and every instructor has the well being and success of their riders in mind when selecting a lesson format.

The Process of Becoming a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

All of our therapeutic riding lessons at Hilltop Horizons Therapeutic Equestrian Center are taught by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, but what does this really mean? What about this certification allows them to be effective attributes to the therapeutic riding industry?

Phase I

The certification process can be generally divided into Phase I and Phase II. The first phase is more focused on completing tests and necessary paperwork that insure that the candidate has the knowledge vital to continuing on further in the process. After becoming an individual member of PATH Intl. and registering as a potential instructor in training, you have one year to submit a current copy of CPR and First Aid certifications and complete a series of online exams that focus on proper riding, teaching, and horse management skills. These tests contain very detailed material about the subjects, and really challenge the candidate to delve deeply into the field that they are pursuing. After these tests and forms are completed, the candidate has officially completed Phase I of instructor certification and receives a letter declaring them a PATH Intl. Therapeutic Riding Instructor in Training. From this point, the candidate has one year to complete Phase II.

Phase 2

Phase II targets hands-on training. The instructor in training must find a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor to serve as their mentor. This person will oversee lesson planning, teaching, and reflection as the candidate undertakes a minimum of 25 hours teaching therapeutic riding lessons to groups of at least two students. This is where a lot of the learning process really begins. Until this point, the candidate hasn’t been truly exposed to the problem solving, creativity, and adaptability necessary to be successful as an instructor. Learning to conduct a lesson with multiple riders with different goals and abilities, while maintaining a safe and enriching environment, can be as challenging as it is rewarding.

On-site workshop and certification

Along with the teaching hours, the candidate must complete an on-site workshop, held in various locations all over the nation, that explains exactly what PATH Intl. is looking for in a therapeutic riding instructor. After completing the workshop, and the instructor in training feels confident in their knowledge and abilities, they must complete on-site riding and teaching tests. The riding test consists of a warmup and a given pattern that tests your ability to transition between walk, trot, and canter, general control of the horse, and your ability to ride in proper form. The teaching test involves effectively teaching a riding skill to a group of two students with disabilities while utilizing proper safety practices.

Continuing education

After successfully passing both parts of the on-site certification, the individual is now considered a registered-level PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor! Each year after this, this certification has to be renewed by completing continuing education hours in disability education, riding skills, and general PATH program education. Each instructor also has to maintain a current certification in CPR and First Aid. In this way, each instructor will continually improve themselves for the benefit of the riders they are serving.

The Difference Between Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy

It can be confusing to understand the difference between certain equine-assisted activities and therapies, particularly therapeutic riding and hippotherapy. On the surface, they seem very similar, and in fact they both accomplish many of the same goals, but there are some key differences between the two.

Therapeutic Riding

The distinguishing trait of therapeutic riding is the teaching of riding skills. The lessons are planned out with a certain riding objective in mind. Of course, these riding skills are targeted towards the rider's goals and needs, but the core of the lesson is still riding skills. For example, a rider who wants to work on improving their core strength would do so by learning riding skills such as sitting with proper riding posture or standing in 2-point position.

Therapeutic riding lessons are taught by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor who goes through a rigorous certification process and completes continued education on relevant topics annually. PATH Intl. emphasizes that therapeutic riding lessons focus on a riding skill and the What's, Why's, and How's of that riding skill. It is a simple yet effective way to make sure our riders are getting the full scope of what they are learning.

Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy, named after the Latin word "hippo-" for horse, is a therapeutic practice that is utilized by occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech pathologists. Instead of teaching riding skills, these health professionals use the horse for its dynamic surface and specialized movement to accomplish a non-horse related goal with their client. In this setting, the horse acts as a therapeutic tool, rather than a riding partner.

These lessons are conducted by a licensed professional and must be under the supervision of a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. This ensures that the session is conducted safely, as per PATH Intl.'s standards.

 

Both therapeutic riding and hippotherapy are extremely beneficial equine-assisted therapies. Their differences define them, but their similarities are what make them truly powerful.

Is Therapeutic Riding the Right Fit?

I've been asked many times by potential participants and parents, if therapeutic riding is the right fit for them or their child. I thought I'd take this chance to explain some variables that disqualify participants and, more importantly, qualities that make them a great match for therapeutic riding.

Precautions and Contraindications

Based on a compilation of databases, PATH Intl. puts together a list of conditions that present "precautions" and "contraindications" to equine activities. In other words, these are conditions that may need special attention or awareness for riders to participate, or in some cases would indicate a rider unsuitable for equine activity. These are compared with the physician's statement - which is required for each participant. Based on the medical professional's information, and the relevant precautions and contraindications, the instructor can make an educated decision for the participant. You might think these guidelines limit a participants eligibility, but it's quite the opposite. Because of these written guidelines, instructors are able to take into consideration conditions that may become a concern and make accommodations accordingly, rather than dismissing a rider because of lack of knowledge on the disability.

Accommodations

With the precautions and contraindications in mind, a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor can make the proper adjustments to suit many riders. You would be surprised by the challenges that we can overcome in a lesson. Scared or squirming participants are no match for the smiling faces of our instructor and volunteers. Therapeutic riding is an adaptable and creative industry that thrives on diversity and new challenges. We are excited to find new ways to help each rider overcome their individual obstacles in life, in a safe and fun environment. We welcome all types of personalities, interests, and abilities at our center.

Alternatives

While we make every effort to accommodate all types of individuals, sometimes therapeutic riding is simply not the right fit. This could be based on weight, age, or severity of medical conditions. In cases like this, we might suggest an alternative form of equine activity, such as Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) that involves unmounted horsemanship activities.

The best way to find out if you, or someone you know, is a viable candidate for therapeutic riding, is to contact us! We will be happy to meet and evaluate the options together.

The Science Behind Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies

I'm a strong advocate of the benefits of therapeutic riding and having the research to support its effects makes it even more powerful as an industry. While there are many more studies published than the ones I’m going to talk about, here are a few that show improvements in a few major populations that are served in the therapeutic riding industry.

ADHD is one of the most prevalent disorders in school-aged children and is characterized by age-inapprapriate focus and impulsiveness, as well as decreased motor coordination. A study was completed on 22 individuals diagnosed with ADHD. They underwent 12 weeks of Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) sessions and their progress was measured based on nationally recognized methods of quantifying ADHD characteristics. After the study, it was found that there was a significant improvement in inattentive and hyperactive behaviors. There was also a significant improvement in manual dexterity and manual coordination within these individuals.

Another diagnosis that is seen often in the therapeutic riding community is autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This neurodevelopmental disorder is often accompanied by social interaction deficits, obsessive behaviors and interests, and motor planning difficulties. 6 months of lessons were given to 25 individuals. Each lesson included mounted and unmounted portions, and progress was measured over time. At the conclusion of the study, it was found that there was significant improvement in socialization skills, motor abilities, and executive functioning, further supporting the use of EAAT as an effective intervention in ASD.

The third and final diagnoses that I am going to focus on are anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Both of these psychological issues share a high degree of emotional distress. A 6 week EAAT program was designed for the participants that involved unmounted activities focusing on the coping of stressful and challenging situations. After the study, improvement was found in PTSD symptoms, emotional distress, alcohol use, and anxiety.

These studies show exciting and promising evidence for the EAAT industry. As more research stands behind it, EAAT becomes a stronger and more viable field.

Resources

Borgi, M., Loliva, D., Cerino, S., Chiarotti, F., Venerosi, A., Bramini, M., … Cirulli, F. (2016). Effectiveness of a Standardized Equine-Assisted Therapy Program for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 46(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-015-2530-6

Jang, B., Song, J., Kim, J., Kim, S., Lee, J., Shin, H.-Y., … Joung, Y.-S. (2015). Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapy for Treating Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.), 21(9), 546–553. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2015.0067

Polusny, M. A., Ries, B. J., Schultz, J. R., Calhoun, P., Clemensen, L., & Johnsen, I. R. (2008). Equine-Assisted Therapy for Anxiety and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 21(1), 75–82. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.

What Makes the Horse Such a Powerful Tool?

If you talk to a horse lover, they'll tell you that there's something special about horses that fills their heart in a way that nothing else can. While that's good and true, there is much more about horses that makes them excellent candidates for improving the challenges of our riders.

Physically

The three dimensional movement of the horse replicates the gait of the human walk. This amazing trait allows individuals to strengthen and maintain core and leg muscles that are necessary for walking. For those who are unable to utilize walking to strengthen those muscles, this is a way to exercise the core muscles and can even serve as a stepping stone to walking. The smooth rhythmic movement of the horse can also provide passive stretching of tight muscles. This can effectively improve range of motion, as well as overall mobility. Many body systems are also stimulated by the horse's movement, including the circulatory and vestibular systems. This allows individuals to improve their awareness of their position in space, balance, and overall cardiac health.

Cognitively

Therapeutic riding involves a multitude of activities that improve the cognitive well being of our riders. Motor planning activities are found in nearly every riding lesson in some form or another. Here, riders are able to practice their ability to incorporate various inputs and respond appropriately. Lessons also give riders the opportunity to utilize and improve their visual, auditory, and kinesthetic processing abilities as they learn the art of riding.

Socially

Therapeutic riding fosters a relationship between horse and human that necessitates a high level of respect and communication from both parties. Creating this strong bond with such a powerful animal builds self esteem and confidence in our riders. They also learn how to face challenges and overcome them with the support of their horse, volunteers, and instructor. Creating these healthy relationships often sets a precedent of creating more healthy relationships in their everyday lives.

Therapeutic riding is much more than just a sport. It is a chance for a brighter future. The multi-faceted horse provides a world of possibilities for anyone working towards an improved well being. The benefits of therapeutic riding are endless.

How Can You Make an Impact?

Volunteers are the backbone of the therapeutic riding industry. Without them, many of our programs would not only be difficult, but impossible. So, what do the volunteers do at a therapeutic riding center?

Lesson Volunteers

One of the biggest roles of volunteers is in the therapeutic riding lessons. Many riders need some sort of assistance, whether it be a person to lead their horse, support their position on the horse as a side walker, or interact with the rider in lesson activities. Volunteers can enrich the experience of the rider in ways that wouldn’t be possible without them.

Facility Volunteers

In addition to lessons, volunteers are also important in nearly every other capacity of the center. Barn and horse maintenance are large and important daily activities of a center. The more hands to help clean a stall or groom a horse, the more smoothly and efficiently the animals can be taken care of. The health and safety of the horses are a main priority of our center, and helping to sustain such a vital piece of the program is a success in itself. An endless list can be added to these two main volunteer opportunities, that can suit any time frame, age, or ability.

Take Away Message...

When I volunteer at a therapeutic riding center, I always feel like I’m getting just as much out of the experience, if not more, than the people I am helping. The wide array of personalities and talents that you witness and engage with each day are amazing and eye opening. The entire experience, from horses… to riders… to other volunteers and staff, has a therapeutic quality that can’t be matched in any other setting. If anything, I hope this blog will encourage at least one person to volunteer and experience for themself just how amazing this industry can be for all parties involved. There is a place for everyone at our center, if you just reach out and look for it.

**adapted from my previous blog "Volunteering - A Place for Everyone" at Chatham University Blog Sites