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Welcome to the ETRA Website
Introduction to Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding is a collective term which encompasses all those divisions of riding emphasizing the learning of functional riding skills for therapeutic purposes. Riding is a pleasurable activity for many people and it is a social skill that can be great fun for all involved. It is also an escape for many children and adults with disabilities, who might otherwise be confined to a wheelchair.
We wish to remind our friends and visitors that the Errington Therapeutic Riding Association is an independent, non-profit association. We are thrilled to be celebrating our 20th anniversary this year as an association. Please note we follow the guidelines set by CanTRA (Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association). We have no affiliation or involvement with NTRA (Nanaimo Therapeutic Riding Association).
Therapeutic Riding is widely accepted as a useful method of improving the physical and/or mental well-being of riders suffering from a wide range of disabilities. Riding provides an opportunity for invigorating exercise and recreation, and it gives the rider a sense of achievement and self-worth.
Benefits of Therapeutic Riding
The horse's movement provides the sensory input of a precise, repetitive pattern of
movement very similar to the movement of a person's pelvis during normal
human gait.
Mobilization of the pelvis, lumbar, spine and hip joint.
Development of head and trunk postural control.
Facilitates development of righting and equilibrium reaction.
Improves symmetry, body awareness, and strength of postural muscles.
Stretches selected muscles.
Positive effect on circulation, intestinal functional disorders, respiratory function
and on the neutrogenic bladder.
Improves postural stability, spatial orientation and endurance.
Both physically and mentally challenged people benefit from riding in various ways
It helps improve balance and coordination and prevents contractures
It helps to build confidence and self-esteem and increases attention span
It gives the rider a measure of independence and it is exercise in the form of fun!
To promote therapeutic rehabilitation of the physically, mentally and emotionally challenged through the use of the horse, under medical advisement.
To promote a framework for individuals or groups interested in the promotion, research and development of therapeutic horse-related activities.
To maintain affiliation with Provincial, National and International Organizations, having
the same goals and objectives.
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