Colorado HorsePower

The three-dimensional motion of the horse provides the rider hip and back actions that simulate natural walking. As the horse moves, the rider is constantly thrown off-balance. In an attempt to rebalance the rider's muscles are required to contract and relax. This improves their overall posture control and balance, increases muscle tone and strength, increases a greater range of motions, decreased spasticity, improves their hand-eye coordination, and gives them an overall normal movement pattern.


Cognitive Benefits:


The repetition of patterned movements required in controlling a horse quickens the reflexes and aids in motor planning. It helps with the development of learned skills, tactile awareness and sensory integration, improves the learning of direction, and helps them be able to plan patterns and motor skills.


Social Benefits:


The bond between the student and the horse is the social foundation that many of our riders begin to build. Through interaction with horses and horseback riding, these individuals derive educational, physical and social benefits that include learning new skills, building self-confidence, concentration skills, patience and self-discipline. It improves their cooperation, friendships between the volunteers and other students, and an overall acceptance and love. Horseback riding nurtures a positive self image. Riders may, for the first time in their lives, experience some independence and sense of being a part of a team.