Therapeutic Riding

Who Can Ride?

Individuals of all ages, with a wide range of physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities benefit from therapeutic horseback riding and other equine activities.

Types of Disabilities Served:

• Autism

• Emotional Disabilities

• Learning Disabilities

• Physical Disabilities

• Visual Impairments

• Behaviorally Challenged

Benefits of Therapeutic Riding:

• Builds the rider’s confidence

• Improves posture, balance  and coordination

• Exercises and strengthens weak muscles

• Exercises and loosens tight muscles

• Increases concentration

Riding skills are taught to participants so they may enjoy horseback riding as a recreational activity as well as receive physical and emotional benefits, increase social and communication skills and build their confidence level.  Through prepared activities, riders learn to stop and start and turn or navigate obstacles.  They may also move through various changes of speed. Riders may even participate in grooming and tacking their horse. Activities include games that assist in balance, motor planning, spatial awareness and sensory integration. 

If you or someone you know is interested in therapeutic riding lessons, please fill out our Therapeutic Riding Application and email it to instructor@lee-maranch.com. Once the completed referral form is received and reviewed, contact will be made for an intake assessment, then the rider forms (participant application and emergency info forms) will need to be completed and reviewed by instructors. A phone interview will also be held with parents/guardians. The rider will be placed in the next available session. With the heated indoor facility riders are able to come year-round so do not hesitate to reach out regardless of time of year. If you would like to view days and times of therapeutic riding, please see the Therapeutic Riding Schedules on the forms page for more information.

Terry irons is our lead instructor for the therapeutic riding program. If you would like more information about the program, please contact Terry at 320-226-4776 (feel free to call or text)!