How To

How to Do Therapeutic Horseback Riding

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Therapeutic horseback riding for those who have developmental or physical disabilities is a terrific way to improve self-esteem, balance and muscle control. Therapeutic horseback riding helps individuals in these situations by giving them experiences that they never thought they could have.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Find a therapeutic horseback riding program in your area. This is an emerging industry, so there likely will be some choices for you in your part of the country. If you can't find one that specifically offers therapeutic riding, try one that offers riding in general.

  2. Step 2

    Get on the horse or have someone help you on the horse. Therapeutic horseback riding uses very gentle and trained horses that offer the rider a terrific low-key experience.

  3. Step 3

    Experience the rhythm of the horse. By feeling the horse's walking rhythm, you can gain a sense of your own personal gait even if you haven't experienced it in awhile. This can enhance your outlook on life and give you a new opportunity to improve your own abilities.

  4. Step 4

    Improve your muscle control and balance by trying to stay upright on the horse. If you are someone who often lacks physical control of your muscles and balance, therapeutic horses offer you the opportunity to work on your muscle control in a way you don't normally.

  5. Step 5

    Become friends with your horse. Therapeutic horses are trained to become friends with those who ride them. You can gain the trust of the horse and become friends with it at the same time, improving your self-esteem.

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