Adaptive Riding FAQs
What is the difference between Adaptive Riding and Therapy?
Adaptive Riding is recreational horseback riding and horsemanship lessons adapted to meet the needs of a client’s ability. Many Adaptive Riding lessons incorporate grooming and tacking up the horse along with riding. Adaptive Riding provides a unique combination of physical and emotional benefits, and is taught by a PATH-certified instructor rather than a therapist. In Therapy sessions, the movement of the horse is used as a treatment tool to help improve function in everyday life. Therapy is delivered by licensed physical and occupational therapists.
What benefits does a rider receive from Adaptive Riding?
Adaptive Riding utilizes both mounted and unmounted activities to positively contribute to the cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being of individuals of all abilities. Horseback riding and horsemanship activities encourage improvements in:
- Flexibility, balance and muscle strength
- Attention span
- Ability to follow multi-step directions
- Appropriate social interactions (including eye contact, vocal volume and expressive language)
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Horseback riding often improves a client’s quality of life by providing an opportunity to bond with their horse, instructor, side walkers, and peers. For individuals with limited mobility or difficulty connecting with others, adaptive riding offers a chance to participate in a sport and connect with others via a shared interest/activity.
How many riders are in each lesson?
NCEFT offers private and semi-private lessons. Riders in a semi-private lesson receive the added benefits of social interaction with another rider of similar age. Clients typically ride once a week, and lessons are 30 minutes.
How much do lessons cost?
Please click here for current pricing and billing/insurance/financial assistance information. Note that NCEFT treats US military personnel and first responders free of charge.
Can missed lessons be made up?
Please click here for our current cancellation policy.
Do lessons take place year-round?
NCEFT operates year-round, weather permitting. Weather conditions that might prevent us from holding sessions include high wind or extreme heat. Our arena is covered, so rain alone usually does not prevent sessions. Sessions are held Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Are there any limitations for participants?
NCEFT does not treat individuals who cannot sit unassisted or who cannot safely work with the therapy team, including the horses. NCEFT is equipped with an overhead lift for those who are unable to mount from a standing position. NCEFT can accommodate most riders, provided they are:
- Not a danger to themselves or others (no hitting, biting, hair pulling, etc.)
- Comfortable wearing a helmet
- Able to maintain an upright head and neck position
- Able to follow single step instructions
- An appropriate weight for the horses that are available
Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes, the minimum age is 4 years old.
What is PATH International?
PATH International is the accrediting and certifying body for professionals in the equine-assisted activities field. For more information about PATH, visit their website.
What is the procedure to sign up for Adaptive Riding Lessons?
An online application for programs is required. After submitting the application, one of our Adaptive Riding Instructors will contact you within 10 business days to determine eligibility and discuss next steps. Click here to fill out the online application.
