Therapeutic Riding
By Octavia Brown, ED.M., D.H.

Photos by Megan Trisch, Senior at Centenary College

Benefits of Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic riding offers a variety of benefits for children and adults with disabilities. As a physical activity, sitting on a moving horse causes the rider's body to respond to the movement of the horse in a three-dimensional manner. The rhythm of 80 - 100 steps each minute stimulates reflexes and balance reactions in a way that cannot be duplicated by the human therapist. This rhythmic motion improves coordination, decreases spasticity, and strengthens muscles. Riding also stimulates the tactile and vestibular systems. Posture, strength and flexibility are improved. Pride of accomplishment is possible for people with a wide variety of physical disabilities, from cerebral palsy and Down syndrome to multiple sclerosis and stroke.

Learning to ride engages not only the body, but the mind and heart. Cognitively, the rider relates to the area of the riding arena and develops spatial skills necessary to navigate safely with the horse. On the psychological and emotional level, the thrill of being seated on a horse or pony that is trained to respond willingly to the rider's signals is a powerful benefit. The rider develops confidence and responsibility by caring for and partnering with such a large and strong animal. Riding also enhances self esteem and develops patience. Most of all, horses with their generous hearts bring joy and unconditional acceptance to all.

About Octavia Brown

Octavia Brown is a founder of NARHA, serving four terms on the Board of Directors. In 1972, she also founded the Somerset Hills Handicapped Riding Center in New Jersey. In 1998, she received NAHRA’s highest honor: the James Brady Award for Lifetime Achievement in Therapeutic Riding. She is an Associate Professor of Equine Studies at Centenary College in Hackettstown, New Jersey. Kaeli volunteered in Professor Brown’s therapeutic riding program and had planned to obtain her NARHA certification.

 

 

Thank You Volunteers

Many thanks to our volunteers who so lovingly and generously contribute their skills and enthusiasm. Thank you:

The Kaeli Kramer Foundation will support the expansion of Therapeutic Riding programs to children and young adults. We will work with Sue Mercil of Islandia Farms to deliver services through the following organizations: City Access of New York, HeartShare of Brooklyn and Queens, Guild for Exceptional Children of Brooklyn, Contemporary Guidance Services, and South Street Seaport Museum. Kaeli was a volunteer in Sue's riding program since its inception.