Therapeutic Adaptive Riding Lessons
From a child with Down syndrome, to an adult with a spinal cord injury, to a teenager with autism, therapeutic horsemanship has increasingly been shown to provide numerous physical, emotional, and mental rewards. At Shadow Hills Riding Club, we strive to make every client’s experience transformative, fostering growth that enhances physical well-being, improves cognitive abilities, strengthens communication skills, and builds self-esteem and confidence.
All sessions are led by a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Instructor, ensuring the highest standards of safety, skill, and care. Our dedicated team works closely with riders to create a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone feels empowered to reach their potential.
Therapeutic riding benefits each person uniquely, depending on factors such as the type and severity of disability, the rider’s motivation, and the unique bond formed between horse and rider. Unlike traditional exercise machines that isolate specific muscle groups, horseback riding engages the entire body. Riders must steer, control, and adjust to the horse’s movements while maintaining balance, utilizing a combination of physical, cognitive, and sensory skills. This holistic activity fosters both physical strength and mental focus, revealing strengths and areas for growth in a dynamic and interactive way.
The connection between horse and rider is a critical element of therapeutic horsemanship. Horses are sensitive, intuitive animals that respond to the rider’s emotions and movements, creating a powerful, nonverbal form of communication that builds trust and fosters personal growth. For many riders, the joy and excitement of horseback riding provide motivation to push through challenges and discomfort, often achieving goals that seemed unattainable.
Therapeutic riding also offers a unique emotional benefit: the pride and accomplishment that comes from mastering a skill that many able-bodied individuals find intimidating. For riders with disabilities, this confidence extends beyond the barn, inspiring greater independence, resilience, and a renewed sense of self-worth.
At Shadow Hills Riding Club, our goal is not only to teach riding but to create moments of connection, joy, and achievement that leave a lasting impact on our riders’ lives. Together, we help our clients unlock new possibilities, one stride at a time.
How to
Begin
All prospective clients interested in our Therapeutic Riding program must complete an in-person assessment to evaluate their needs and riding abilities. To schedule your introductory assessment with Johnny Higginson, our Program Director, please complete the SHRC Rider Packet prior to booking.
A $200.00 assessment fee is required at the time of your appointment. Assessment appointments are available seven days a week, and we are committed to accommodating your schedule to make the process seamless and welcoming.
Therapeutic Riding Lessons
Shadow Hills Riding Club offers individualized lessons tailored to meet the needs of each rider in our Therapeutic Riding program.
Lessons are scheduled directly with the instructor, and payment must be completed online prior to the scheduled lesson time. Checks are also accepted and should be made payable to Shadow Hills Riding Club.
Please note, cancellations require at least 24 hours’ notice to avoid being charged for the lesson. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson time will still be billed.
To schedule your assessment email info@shadowhillsridingclub.org or call (213) 761-0549