FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THERAPY RIDING?

A Therapeutic Riding Programme is used to develop, increase and improve:
Physical abilities: Muscle tone, balance, coordination, muscle strength, flexibility, fitness, posture, gait (ability to walk), respiration, circulation, metabolism, sensory perception and integration, independence: self-care and mobility.
Psychological abilities: Concentration, problem-solving and decision making, insight, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, learning/practising concepts e.g. letters, numbers, colours, distances, shapes etc.
Social abilities: Communication and social skills, learning appropriate behaviour and manners, interaction with peers: individuals and groups, human/animal contact and bonding, building relationships, consideration for others and taking on responsibility.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A THERAPY RIDING LESSON?

There are many elements associated with Therapeutic Riding sessions. Once mounted, the session will include physical exercises to help improve coordination, posture and balance.
A variety of games and other learning aids are used as part of the sessions – all of which are used to stimulate the physical, cognitive, and emotional development of the child or adult. The exercises are done in a fun and varied way and include many learning aids.
In addition, Therapeutic Riding Sessions can include a Sensory Trail specifically designed to provide both sensory stimulation and sensory integration.

WHAT IS THE COST?

Please contact us for booking and cost information using the contact form on the website or email: better.together.tr@gmail.com or +353 (83) 319 0608.

WHO FACILITATES THE LESSON?

Therapeutic Riding Lessons are facilitated by Therapeutic Riding Coach Natalie Carey. The session may also include a side-walker.

PREPARING FOR A LESSON

Please complete and submit the Therapeutic Riding Application Form prior to arrival.

We encourage Therapeutic Riders to arrive 10 – 15 minutes earlier than their lesson time. The extra time allows riders to get ready at their own pace to be relaxed and ready to get maximum value out of the session.

HELMETS AND CLOTHING

Whilst we ask that Therapeutic Riders wear riding hats, we appreciate that some riders – particularly very young riders – will find this uncomfortable. Where this is the case, please discuss this with the Therapeutic Riding Coach. 

We acknowledge that some Therapeutic Riders may live with sensory processing issues and may have their preferred way of dressing. Track-suit bottoms and leggings are ideal for Therapeutic Riding. When a parent or other person walks alongside the session, the best footwear is closed-toe shoes or boots. If in any doubt, drop Natalie an email at better.together.tr@gmail.com or call +353 (83) 319 0608.

CANCELLATIONS

Cancellations should be made 24 hours before lessons are due to take place. Please contact Natalie at better.together.tr@gmail.com or call +353 (83) 319 0608. Cancellations made outside of 24 hours will be charged.