Horse riding

The AVCP offers therapeutic horse riding sessions for disabled and disadvantaged adults and children. Sessions in general last for between 20-30 minutes and take place in the sand arena, on bridle ways, and along our purpose-made woodland ride.

We can provide for groups of up to eight but are happy to organise individual sessions if necessary, all ages are welcome.

Why horse riding?

Riding a horse has been recognised as a beneficial source of exercise for over two thousand years. Beyond the benefits of sitting astride the horse's physical movement, horse riding allows the participant to enjoy being in the countryside, connect with horses, make new friends and work towards new personal ambitions.

At the AVCP we are fortunate to have a variety of horses which are suitable for such riding sessions. We also have a very large mounting block which has room for three adults standing on the top step, this allows for extra support of the participant as they mount the horse. For younger riders we often use a sheepskin with solid hand hoop for added security.

 

So, how is it therapeutic?

  •  The horses movement, which is multidimensional, variable, rhythmic and reptitive improves the muscle tone, posture, co-ordination, strength, flexibility and cognitive skills of the rider.
  • The horses gait closely mimics that of a human, riding gently and rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner comparable to walking.
  • A horses body runs 4-5 degrees higher than a humans, extra warmth can help reduce spasticity and stretch muscles.
  • There are psychological benefits to horse riding, an improvement in self confidence, general sense of well being, better emotional control and self- discipline.

Our sessions regularly benefit participants with Autism, Cerebral palsy, Learning disabilities, acquired brain injury and Down's syndrome.

 

If you think horse riding is for you, or someone in your care, please click here to contact us or use the numbers below:

jo@avcp.co.uk              07816664529

amanda@avcp.co.uk      07723607220

 

WE ARE ALWAYS PLEASED TO HAVE EXTRA VOLUNTEER HELP. VOLUNTEERS ARE TRAINED, SO IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING AND HAVE SOME TIME FREE, COME ALONG AND GIVE IT A GO, WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU.