What are the benefits?

Using riding games, trail rides and challenges suited to the abilities of the riders, therapeutic riding:

  • Improves balance, coordination, posture and reflexes
  • Increases strength, mobility, flexibility and muscle tone
  • Enhances concentration and learning ability
  • Helps develop confidence, trust, responsibility and cooperation
  • Encourages socialization and friendships
  • And above all – it’s fun & exciting!
Who may participate?

Any individual with a emotional challenges, developmental, cognitive or physical disability benefits from riding. Challenges may include: accidental impairment, ADD/ADHD or autism, Cancer, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, hearing or visual impairment, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, stroke or traumatic brain damage, and other special needs. Suitable candidates can be referred by doctors, therapists, family, friends and volunteers or fill out the application form below and we will contact you.

When?

Group lessons are  in the Spring Camp Chief Hector (May – June), and in the Fall Camp Chief Hector (September – October). Horsemanship programs are held at Bow Valley Riding Association and Banff Light Horse Association Other times may be arrangement.

 

Apply Today!

Useful Resources:

 

Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association

A non-profit organization providing support to individuals and groups through education, certification, insurance coverage, communication and accreditation.

Little Bits

Based in Edmonton, Little Bits is a non-profit organization that offers persons with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the therapeutic and recreational benefits of horseback riding.

Horses All

A monthly magazine on the entire horse industry – based in Calgary and read throughout western Canada and the Northern United States.

Mountain Horse Canada

Helping riders with special needs and their existing local instructors by developing personal riding and horsemanship programs

Rocky Mountain Adaptive

Rocky Mountain Adaptive is a Not for Profit Society, with the primary aim of providing any individual with a disability the chance to access all sporting and recreational activities in the Canadian Rockies.