Saddle Up for Core Strength:
How Horseback Riding Naturally Builds a Stronger You
Horses Naturally Strengthens Your Core Muscles
Riding horses is an incredible full-body workout that engages and strengthens your core muscles without you even realizing it. Here’s how spending time in the saddle works wonders for your Transverse Abdominus (TVA) and Obliques: When it comes to riding—especially adaptive riding—your core muscles play a huge role in keeping you balanced, steady, and connected to your horse. Two of the most important muscle groups for riders are the Transverse Abdominus (TVA) and the Obliques. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be an anatomy expert to understand how they help!
Why Therapeutic Riding Horses Are Extraordinary
Therapeutic riding horses aren’t just any horses—they’re the unsung heroes of the equestrian world, carrying not only riders but also their hopes, challenges, and triumphs. Unlike regular riding horses, these remarkable animals play a pivotal role in helping individuals with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges reach new heights. But what makes these horses so special, and how do we know when a horse is ready to join the team? Let’s explore the unique qualities that set therapeutic riding horses apart and the careful process behind choosing the right ones for our program.
TAILS FROM THE TRAILS
Physical Benefits
Improved Balance and Coordination: Riding a horse requires maintaining balance and coordinating movements, which can enhance overall physical stability and motor skills.
Strengthened Muscles: The act of riding helps to tone and strengthen muscles, particularly in the core, legs, and arms.
Enhanced Flexibility: Adaptive riding promotes stretching and increased flexibility through the various movements required to ride and control the horse.
Improved Posture: Maintaining proper riding form encourages better posture and alignment of the spine.
Sensory Integration: The movement of the horse provides sensory input that can help improve sensory processing and integration.