While horseback riding, the human body moves in a manner similar to the way it moves while walking. Because of this similarity, a horse is carefully chosen for each individual rider based on the horse's stride, girth, and demeanor. Because the horse moves in six directions, forward and backward, side to side, and up and down, the rider is forced to react to the horse's every movement. This complicated but rhythmic motion encourages better balance, flexibility, and muscular strength and control. Horseback riding also offers many psychological benefits.
Horseback riding requires, and thus promotes the development of, patience and self-control.
Interaction with the horse, volunteers, therapist, and others can also improve the rider's social development. The horseback riding experience includes so many sensory stimuli that just being there is beneficial to the rider. The sights, the sounds, the smells all increase stimulation in the brain. . Go to Part 10 Of 10 .