Finding another sport to love
I was a runner, hiker, biker—I loved being in the outdoors. After I was diagnosed three years ago, my brother suggested that I learn to ride because the horse can walk for me. My riding lessons from a certified therapist involve exercising on horseback as well as learning the basics of riding. My goal is to be able to enjoy trail riding with friends and family. Hippotherapy, as horseback-riding therapy is called, exercises muscles that are normally neglected. Many think that the movements of the horse are therapeutic. I believe that contact with these animals is healing to the spirit.
—Kay Roberts
Hippotherapy (horseback riding) is believed to be beneficial for people with walking difficulties because the rhythmic movements of the human pelvis while horseback riding are similar to those that occur with walking. In addition, the variations in the horse's speed, stride, and direction are thought to be beneficial for walking. There also may be some psychological benefits related to developing a bond with the horse, developing relationships with the therapist and other riders, and simply being outdoors.
Therapeutic Riding & MS! Click here for more information.
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