Horse riding offers a range of benefits for disabled people in the UK by Craig Cole

Horse riding is something that is enjoyed by tens of thousands of people right across Britain every single week. To some people it is a sport that they take extremely seriously in order to take part in competitions across the globe, while to others it is simply a wonderful way to get out into the countryside, stay fit and spend quality time with an animal.

For a number of people though, horse riding means something more. There are thousands of people in the UK who suffer from a mental or physical disability, for whom horse riding is not only a source of immense pleasure, but a form of therapy, providing a tremendous boost to their general health and wellbeing.

There are groups across the country who run specialist riding centres and while riding benefits different people in different ways, everyone who attends the courses is better for it. Some people will benefit physically from riding, while many others will grow in confidence - something that is quickly reflected in other parts of their lives as they interact with other people.

In the UK, the Riding for the Disabled Association has been creating opportunities for disabled riders for the past 40 years. It now has 500 member groups across the country that in turn help in excess of 20,000 people take part in horse and carriage riding and vaulting activities. Contact with animals alone can be enough to benefit a person, but many disabled riders get much more out of their riding sessions. From achieving personal ambitions such as sitting on a horse for the first time, right up to improving posture and developing muscle groups. Horse riding can have a massive range of therapeutic benefits.

Anyone who is thinking about taking up horse riding, whether they are able bodied or disabled needs to make sure they have the right kit before getting onto a horse. Safety must always be the top priority, and wearing a suitable riding helmet whenever you get on a horse is right at the top of the list.

Using the internet to find riding gear is one of the easiest ways to get hold of the kit you need. Online merchants stock everything from horse saddles to equestrian clothing, and by shopping on the internet you are much more likely to find a bargain. Have a browse around and see what deals are available now.


About the Author

Craig Cole writes articles on horse equipment