When riders and volunteers are not actively involved with the horses, they sit in the middle of the ring and socialize. This program provides ah enjoyable and enriching experience for SIUC recreation students and for the riders. It gives exposure to students unfamiliar with horseback riding to an activity rich in its recreational and therapeutic benefits. Students work closely with adults who have a wide variety of physical and sensory impairments. Most importantly, they learn the vast abilities possessed by these riders, as they progress to greater levels of independent control of the horse.
Some riders advance to trotting, cantering, and even jumping.
Leisure and social satisfaction increased, and participants felt they had increased the awareness of others and their abilities. Riders reported greater feelings of independence, confidence, and power. And the human-animal bond was reported as significant to their enjoyment. The essentials to creating a successful experience for riders and recreation students are qualified instructors, a safe facility and equipment, and experienced, well-schooled horses. There are resources available to help CTRS's and other recreation professionals evaluate riding opportunities at their agency.