Emotional Physical and Mental Benefit of Horseback Riding Essay Example

engaging in harmful behaviors.

Promoting reverence for animals: I strongly advocate that every individual should demonstrate profound admiration for our animal companions.

Horseback riding not only enhances our comprehension of the remarkable capabilities and sensitivities of horses but also fosters a renewed admiration for animals.

Moreover, engaging in this adventurous pursuit enhances our aptitude for risk-taking by imparting valuable lessons in effectively managing potential dangers.

Additionally, horseback riding has been utilized as a successful method since the 1950s to aid physically disabled individuals in improving their physical and emotional well-being, commonly known as therapeutic riding.

Therapeutic riding has shown to be advantageous for emotionally disabled individuals, particularly children with autism. It enhances their concentration and even promotes vocalization during horseback riding.

Prioritizing safety: When selecting a training farm or instructor, it is crucial to proceed with caution. The wellbeing and safety of both people and animals should always come first, including the mandatory use of a helmet.

(http://medinagazette. Northcoast now. com/2010/07/21/the-psychology-of-horseback-riding/)Psychological Benefits

• Riding a horse outdoors on a ranch can improve overall well-being and increase self-confidence. It allows individuals to learn a skill usually performed by able-bodied people, which serves as an effective confidence-builder. Participating in activities such as shows and play days can also contribute to a sense of accomplishment.
• For individuals with disabilities, horseback riding sparks curiosity about the world beyond their immediate surroundings and broadens their perspective.

Exercising on horseback adds an intriguing aspect to the activity, making it more captivating and increasing one's interest in their own life. The exhilarating experiences that come with riding also amplify the rider's desire to express and communicate about their journey on horseback.

hazards but also improves one's ability to take risks.

The rider learns to overcome fears by staying on the horse and attempting new skills and positions. Additionally, the rider develops patience as they work with a horse that may not always cooperate. The repetition of basic riding principles also helps to build patience. Emotional control and self-discipline are learned as the rider discovers that out-of-control emotions upset the horse and therefore, the rider learns to control and appropriately express these emotions. Ultimately, riding provides a sense of normality.

By acquiring a demanding expertise, the rider experiences a feeling of normalcy which arises from successfully accomplishing something that is regarded as challenging by others in society. Expansion of the locus of control takes place as the rider gains mastery over their environment by controlling a formidable animal (source: http://www.strides.org/psycho.html). Additionally, friendship is also fostered through this activity.

Although riding is often a solitary activity, it is typically enjoyed in groups who share a love for horses and the shared experience of riding. This common interest serves as a solid foundation for building friendships.

They learn to prioritize the needs of the horse. Their experiences increase in a multitude of ways, with limitless possibilities in riding. From tacking and grooming to trail riding, from attending horse shows to learning the various parts of a horse, the rider is continuously experiencing and developing. Furthermore, the horse grants them access to places that would

otherwise be unreachable due to their disability. They also find enjoyment in it.

Undoubtedly, the act of riding a horse is both enjoyable and thrilling, providing riders with excitement and pleasure during every lesson. (source: http://www.strides.org/social)

html) Physical Benefits

The horse's movement challenges the rider's balance, causing their muscles to contract and relax as they try to regain equilibrium. This activity accesses deep muscles that traditional therapy cannot target. The horse's three-dimensional rhythm mimics walking, teaching leg and trunk muscles rhythmic patterns. Through therapeutic vaulting, riders can engage different muscle groups by assuming various positions on the horse. Altering speed, direction, and initiating stops and starts further enhance the advantages offered.

Riding strengthens muscles as it involves increased use. Although perceived as enjoyable, riding is also considered exercise, leading to increased tolerance and motivation for longer periods of physical activity.

• Riding a horse enhances coordination, reflexes, and motor planning. Coordinating with the horse's movements allows the rider to receive immediate feedback, facilitating correct cues. The repetitive patterns in controlling the horse also improve reflexes and aid in motor planning.
• Sitting on a horse stretches tight or spastic muscles. To achieve this, the rider stretches the adductor muscles of their thighs before mounting. They gradually progress to wider horses to further stretch these muscles. Additionally, gravity assists in stretching the muscles in front of the leg when riding without stirrups. Riding with stirrups, keeping heels level or down, helps stretch the heel cords and calf muscles.

Stomach and back muscles are stretched as the

rider is encouraged to maintain an upright posture against the movement of the horse. Arm and hand muscles are stretched as part of routine exercises on the horse and by the act of holding and using the reins. Decreased spasticity is experienced through the rhythmic motion of the horse, aided by the warmth that promotes relaxation, particularly in the legs. Sitting astride a horse also helps to alleviate extensor spasms in the lower limbs.

The act of holding the reins can aid in the breaking of flexor spasm patterns in the upper limbs. Various developmental vaulting positions are also aimed at reducing or dispersing spasticity. Additionally, fatigue can promote relaxation and contribute to a decrease in spasticity. Furthermore, as spasticity diminishes, the joints may experience an increase in range of motion.

The act of mounting and dismounting, tacking up, grooming, and exercises during lessons also improve range of motion. Reduction of abnormal movement patterns occurs when spasticity is reduced and range of motion is increased; this, in turn, inhibits abnormal movements. In addition, relaxation techniques while riding contribute to inhibiting abnormal movement. While riding is not typically viewed as a cardiovascular exercise, trotting and cantering both enhance respiration and circulation. Lastly, riding can improve appetite and digestion.

Riding horses offers several benefits for the body, similar to other physical activities. It can boost your appetite and enhance digestion. Moreover, it has a positive effect on sensory integration by stimulating the sense of touch and responding to environmental stimuli. The horse's movement, as well as changes in direction and speed, stimulate the vestibular system. Additionally, the olfactory system reacts to various scents present in a stable and ranch environment.

The

horse utilizes its vision and auditory system for control while being ridden on a ranch, with these senses interconnected and contributing to the riding experience. Additionally, proprioceptors are activated to enhance proprioception by transmitting information from muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. (source: http://www)

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