Benefits of Therapeutic Horsemanship
Horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human's gait. Riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. In addition to therapeutic benefits, horseback riding also provides recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors. Therapeutic horsemanship contributes to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with disabilities.
English and Western Lessons
English riding is seen throughout the world. There are many variations of English riding including horse racing, dressage and jumping. Most versions require riders to use both hands on the reins and "post" or "rise" in the trot. This is the basic style of riding seen in the many events at the Olympics. The English saddle that is used is designed to allow the rider to have closer contact with the horse's back.
Western riding is a style of riding that evolved from the ranching traditions that were brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors. This evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. Due to the cowboys in the west having to use one hand to use a lariat, western horses were trained to neck rain with the other hand. The Western saddle that is used is larger and heavier than an English saddle. It allows the weight of the rider to be spread over a larger area of the horse's back which makes it more comfortable, especially for long days chasing cows.
Western riding is a style of riding that evolved from the ranching traditions that were brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors. This evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. Due to the cowboys in the west having to use one hand to use a lariat, western horses were trained to neck rain with the other hand. The Western saddle that is used is larger and heavier than an English saddle. It allows the weight of the rider to be spread over a larger area of the horse's back which makes it more comfortable, especially for long days chasing cows.