The therapeutic qualities of horseback riding Farm in North Greece offers therapeutic riding programs By Jennifer Magar
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here is no denying the bond that can form between humans and animals. Pets become our companions and members of the family. They comfort us, bring us joy and can brighten our day. Working with animals can be beneficial to people with all sorts of struggles. Animals are a source of emotional support and even relaxation for people seeking social interaction or those who are simply in need of a friend. Jane Gebhardt, who has owned and operated Manitou Hill Farms for 26 years, has offered recreational therapeutic horseback riding at her farm since 1997. Manitou Hill Farms is affiliated with NARHA, the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, which sets the guidelines and curriculum for the therapeutic riding program. The therapeutic riding program offered at Manitou Hill Farms is recreational, though other riding programs offer physical therapists. Located on 21 acres in North Greece, Manitou Hill Farms has several horses trained for therapeutic riding. “Our horses for the therapeutic riding program have the appropriate temperament to work with people of all ages and the horse is matched with the rider’s skill level,” Gebhardt said. These horses work particularly well with people through their exposure to both adults and children in horseback riding lessons and day camp programs. Manitou Hill Farms has worked with people who have multiple sclerosis, down syndrome, and other developmental and physical disabilities in their therapeutic riding program. According to the American Equestrian Association, therapeutic horseback riding has physical, emotional and mental rewards and the benefits of riding are seen across a wide range of
disabilities from cerebral palsy, autism, spina bifida, and attention deficit disorder to name a few. Research shows riding has many physiological and psychological benefits, including lowered blood pressure and heart rate, decreased stress levels and reduced anger, hostility, and tension. The American Physical Therapy Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association are two organizations that recognize and encourage the therapeutic qualities of horseback riding. Sitting on and riding a horse require balance and strength and thus offering many physical ben-
all times, one person to lead the horse and one side walker on each side of the horse,” Gebhardt explained. Although someone is leading the horse, the rider must still give commands and use the reins to guide the horse.
efits as well. For those with impaired mobility, riding relaxes and stimulates unused muscles and joints, building muscle tone and improving strength and coordination. Horseback riding can be a challenge for those with poor motor skills and physical handicaps, so safety is always a priority. Riders have horseback riding instructors and trained volunteers during their ride. “Most riders will have three people assisting them at
The rocking, rhythmic movement of a horse moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to the human walk. This offers disabled riders the freedom to move without the assistance of a wheelchair, often for the first time. According to the American Equestrian Association, riders with physical disabilities show improvement in flexibility, balance, and muscle strength. Gebhardt explained that for some people who are bound to wheelchair, it
Some horses at Manitou Hill Farms in North Greece. “Our horses for the therapeutic riding program have the appropriate temperament to work with people of all ages and the horse is matched with the rider’s skill level,” said farm owner Jane Gebhardt. April 2012 •
can be difficult just to get them on the horse because their muscles are often tight. Gebhardt recalls one rider who came to Manitou Hill Farms shortly after he had been paralyzed after an injury. His muscles were so stiff from sitting in his wheelchair, it took 20 minutes just to get him up onto the horse. By his third or fourth session he was able to sit properly on the horse without his legs tight and his knees bent. Cathy List started riding at Manitou Hill Farms seven years ago. She has rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease and says that some days she is in so much pain she can barely get out of bed. “I noticed when riding, my pain goes away,” List said. For her, simple acts like holding the reins and brushing the horse helps exercise her hands She believes the warmth from the horse’s body helps to loosen up her stiff joints. “It changed my whole life.” List’s 8-year-old son, Seth, also rides at Manitou Hill Farms. List says she sees improvement in Seth, who has ADD/ADHD, when he rides. List says Seth has trouble concentrating in school. “But when he’s riding he is calm and focused,” List said. “He is able to communicate and follows instructions.” She says Seth and the horse, Jack, have bonded and that there is an undeniable connection between humans a horses. List says Seth benefits not only from riding but also from caring for Jack, which she believes has helped teach him responsibility. Gebhardt says horses make great therapeutic animals because they need a lot of care and attention. “Just grooming and interacting with the horses can be therapeutic,” Gebhardt said, especially for those who are dealing with feelings of isolation because of the bond that can form by just interacting with a horse. There are many rewards of caring for horses, without ever riding. From her experience providing therapeutic riding, Gebhardt says many feel a sense of empowerment and independence being in command of such a large animal. She says the experience helps boost the self-esteem and independence of riders of all ages. Therapeutic riding offers a unique experience for all involved. Volunteers are given a gratifying experience, taking part in helping the riders who benefit physically, mentally, and emotionally. The next recreational therapeutic riding program at Manitou Hill Farms is scheduled for spring. For more information, call 585-392-5576.
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