Equine assisted activities provide many benefits to many different kinds of people; not just to the physically and mentally handicapped, but to the emotionally and socially handicapped as well.
Physical Benefits
- Improved appetite and digestion
- Decreased spasticity
- Improved balance and coordination
- Improved respiration and circulation
- Increased range of motion in joints
- Reduction in abnormal movement patterns
- Sensory integration
- Strengthened muscles
- Stretching of tight or spastic muscles
Watch an incredible video of a rider with Parkinson’s
Psychological Benefits
- Development of patience
- Emotional control and self-discipline
- General sense of well-being
- Improved self-confidence
- Increased interest in the outside world
- Increased sense of control
- Sense of normality
Social Benefits
- Development of friendships and trust
- Development of respect and love for animals
- Experience a sense of being part of a team
- Experience independence
Watch video of Special Kids Rodeo