EQUINE
Moving As One
Our equine center provides both therapeutic and recreation-focused programs that impact a rider’s emotional, cognitive, physical, and mental health. Individual and group equine programs are available to those of all ages and abilities, including elders, toddlers, veterans, and those experiencing physical or mental challenges.
Whether you are an experienced rider, have always wanted to take lessons, or simply need extra support to ride, our staff will develop a customized program to fit your riding skill level.
Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapy
Research shows that the walking pattern of a horse is similar to that of a human in motion. When a rider sits astride a walking horse, the movement transferred from the horse to the rider can assist in developing improved pelvic mobility, postural control, weight shift, timing/fluidity needed for coordination, rhythm/sensory regulation, and much more. Equine movement is especially effective in that, the total number of imposed challenges to the rider’s pelvis and spine can be more effective than traditional clinical tools, such as a physioball, balance board, an exercise program, etc.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Cerebral Palsy
- Developmental Coordination Disorder
- Developmental Delay
- Genetic Disorders
- Learning Disabilities
- Sensory Integration Disorders
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Down syndrome
- Impaired balance
- Impaired coordination (rhythm, timing)
- Impaired motor planning
- Impaired postural control and movement patterns
- Impaired sensorimotor function
- Impaired mobility/gait
- Muscle tightness
- Muscle weakness
- Impaired regulation of arousal and attention
Our Equine Programs and Services
Adaptive Riding
Our adaptive riding lessons are designed to teach the fundamentals of horseback riding, including different gaits and how to use the reins, as well as horsemanship skills including grooming, tacking, lead walking and caring for a horse. Vaulting techniques are often utilized in lessons to facilitate balance, coordination, core strength and working in partnership with the horse.
Our certified instructors work on goals that teach skills needed for successful participation in school, at home, and in the community.
Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy is a treatment tool that physical, occupational and speech therapists incorporate into their treatment sessions at The Root Farm. Our therapists do not teach patients horsemanship, or how to ride a horse. The therapists use clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice in the purposeful manipulation of equine movement to improve core strength, balance, muscle tone, timing/coordination and sensorimotor systems, etc. Although hippotherapy is a focus of each therapy session, they use typical tools of their trade as well to address patients’ functional goals. The therapist relies heavily on the well-trained horses and our amazing equine professionals to provide the highest quality therapy possible.
Ready to Get Riding?
Recreational Riding
Whether you have always wanted to learn to ride or want to improve your skills, we will work with you to build a customized equine experience. Our equine programs are open to anyone interested in riding. We offer private and group riding sessions, and have day and evening slots available year-round. Please fill out the form below to learn more and a member of our team will be in touch.
Photo Gallery
Meet Our Equine Staff
