Just being able to participate with whatever limitations they may have, allows development of confidence and pride. Hippotherapy builds upon the psychosocial benefits of riding and adds improvements in physical needs as well. The motion and heat of the horse not only aid he rider's blood circulation and reflexes, but gently exercise the spinal column, joints and muscles. The horse's movement provides a combination of sensory and neurologic input that can be used to address a variety of disabilities. Horseback riding can exercise portions of the body that often remain unused or aren't working.
Riding can be an alternative to muscular therapy or exercise equipment.
For individuals with disabilities the movement of the horse simulates motions that able-bodied individuals do normally. Riding can even create the same sensations as walking, which can be a wonderful feeling for those who cannot walk. This walking sensation results from the rhythmic gait of the horse, which is most natural to human gait, consequently moving the pelvis in a way very similar to walking. Hippotherapy at Gentle Giants Equestrian Therapy includes formal exercises on horseback that are designed to achieve specific goals and objectives. In sessions, the horse, along with an assistant, helps the rider to improve and correct proximal and central motor and sensory deficits.