ADAPTIVE RIDING PROGRAM
Adaptive Riding is an activity on horseback that positively contributes to the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well being of individuals with adaptive needs. It provides benefit in the areas of therapy, educational sport, recreation, and leisure.
A disability does not have to limit a person’s ability to ride horses. In fact, experiencing the motion of a horse can be very therapeutic.
%
of individuals in El Paso County have a disability
%
of adults in the United States have some type of disability
“The experience we’ve had with StableStrides has absolutely been the beneficial impact we hoped for. We have seen undeniable development in their ability to self-regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, focus and complete tasks, and develop friendships. There has also been a positive effect on their self-esteem as their riding skills improve week-by-week. Of all the therapies we have chosen over the years, this has by far been the most rewarding and we could not be more grateful for the staff, volunteers, and horses at StableStrides for brightening our children’s world!”
– Mary Fowler
Our adaptive riding program teaches horseback-riding skills, while using therapeutic activities tailored to each individual rider’s educational, physical, social, and recreational goals.
Horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to the movement created when walking. For individuals who are unable to walk or have difficulty walking, adaptive riding can provide the same physical and neurological stimulation that walking would normally provide. The horse human bond that is created during lessons, and the social interactions and group participation that our riders experience are beneficial for cognitive growth.
“Thank you for helping Jon find hope. Thank you for teaching him to stretch his thinking as well as his physical limits. Every ride changes him in a myriad of ways: he walks a little taller, a few steps further, is more stable, and decidedly happier.
I give thanks and gratitude for your gift of helping my son to enjoy life.”
Adaptive Riding can be beneficial for individuals with a wide range of diagnoses include (but are not limited to):
Muscular Dystrophy
ADD/ADHD
Multiple Sclerosis
Visual Impairment
Down Syndrome
Spina Bifida
Emotional Disorders
Spinal Cord Injuries
Learning Disabilities
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Cerebral Palsy
Sensory Integration
Developmental Delay
The benefits of Adaptive Riding include (but are not limited to):
Promotes Strength
Increases Flexibility
Develops Balance
Improves Coordination
Helps Breathing
Improves Coping Skills
Builds Self-Confidence
Improves Social Skills
Improves Posture
Develops Gross and Fine Motor Skills
A PATH Intl certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor conducts all Adaptive Riding lessons. The majority of our lessons are held in a group setting with 2-3 riders in a class, but individual lessons are available upon request or upon recommendation of the instructor. A horse leader and two side walkers, if necessary, accompany all riders.
Clients must be 4 years old or older to participate in our Adaptive Riding Program.