People with all types and levels of disability are accepted into RDA programs (including but not limited to):<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
How our programs help<\/strong>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Animals often create a special bond with humans\u00a0and this is especially true with horses. The nonverbal communication between the person and the horse strengthens the emotional bond that is created. Words aren\u2019t needed for them to be perfectly in tune with each other.\u00a0Emotions<\/a>\u00a0find space to flow\u00a0and the relationship between them creates a love and understanding that is often indescribable.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Horse riding is a natural reflex inhibiting position which helps improve balance and posture providing a unique form of exercise and rehabilitation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Improved Balance<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n As the horse moves the rider is constantly thrown off balance, requiring the rider\u2019s muscles to contract and relax in an attempt to rebalance. This exercising is similar to physiotherapy, reaching the deep muscles, but making the therapy more enjoyable and even fun!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The three-dimensional rhythmic movement of the horse is similar to the motion of walking, teaching rhythmical patterns to the muscles of the legs and trunk. By placing the rider in different positions on the horse (therapeutic riding) different muscles are worked. Stopping and starting the horse as well as changing the speed and direction increases the benefits. Muscles are strengthened by the increased use involved in riding. Even though riding is exercise, it is perceived as enjoyment, therefore the rider has increased tolerance and motivation to lengthen the period of exercise.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Riding a horse requires a great deal of coordination in order to get the desired response from the horse. Since the horse provides instant feedback to every action from the rider, it is easy to know when you have given the correct cue. Repetition of the patterned movements required in controlling a horse quickens the reflexes and aids in motor planning.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Stretching of Tight or Spastic Muscles<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Sitting on a horse requires stretching of the adductor muscles of the thighs. This is accomplished by pre-stretching exercises prior to mounting and by starting the rider on a narrow horse and gradually working to wider horses. Gravity helps stretch the calf muscles when the rider sits on the horse without stirrups. Stomach and back muscles are stretched by encouraging the rider to maintain an upright position against the movement of the horse. Arm and hand muscles are stretched by the act of holding the reins. The rhythmic motion and warmth of the horse aids in relaxation, particularly of the legs. Sitting astride the horse helps break the extensor spasms of lower limbs. Holding the reins helps to break the flexor spasm patterns of upper limbs. Fatigue helps to decrease spasticity by producing relaxation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Increased Range of Motion of the Joints<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n As spasticity is reduced, range of motion increases. Range of motion is also improved by the act of mounting and dismounting, tacking, grooming and exercises during the lesson<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Improved Respiration and Circulation<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Although riding is not normally considered a cardiovascular activity, trotting and cantering do increase both respiration and circulation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Improved Appetite and Digestion<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Like all forms of exercise, riding stimulates the appetite<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Sensory Integration<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Riding stimulates the tactile sense both through touch and environmental stimuli. The many sounds of the outdoor setting helps to involve the auditory system.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u00a0PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Interaction with horses relaxes and de-stresses in equal parts, freeing the mind from day-to-day stress. Many psychologists recommend it in order to deal with anxiety and stress problems. In the same way, it\u2019s also used in some cases of\u00a0anorexia and bulimia<\/a>.\u00a0It also helps people relate to other people who are outside of their usual context. It improves the self-control of emotions and teaches participants to express what they are feeling in an appropriate way.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n General Sense of Well Being<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Exercise in the fresh air of the country away from hospitals, doctors offices, therapy rooms, and home helps to promote a sense of well being.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Increased Interest in One\u2019s Own Life<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The excitement of riding encourages the riders to speak and communicate about their activities<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Improved Self Confidence<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Confidence is gained in mastering new skills normally performed by able-bodied people. The ability to control an animal much larger and stronger than oneself is a great confidence builder<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPHYSICAL BENEFIT<\/a>S<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengthened Muscles<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Coordination, Faster Reflexes and Better Motor Planning<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n