Riding Benefits
Riding is widely recognized as one of the most beneficial types of therapeutic recreation available. It helps develop self-awareness, builds self-confidence, self-discipline, and improves concentration. Horseback riding also improves posture, balance and coordination, increases joint mobility, strengthens and relaxes muscles.
The fact is, there is no other recreational therapy that can replicate the human gait like therapeutic riding. Riders with learning and developmental challenges work on visual and auditory processing, problem solving, sequencing, verbalization and communication skills during their riding sessions. Riders with physical issues report both physical and emotional benefits from their time on the horse.
Our program gives a feeling of freedom and independence and an awareness of body in space that would be very difficult to obtain by conventional therapy. Exercising the spirit as well as the body provides an enormous boost for volunteers and participants alike.
Classes
Our classes are comprised of students with a wide range of mental and physical challenges. We provide services to the Coweta County School System Special Education classes and any other individuals that qualify - ages 3-21, weighing no more than 150lbs.
Lessons are taught by our PATH, Intl. certified riding instructors, Brown Powell, Marie Powell or Cheryl Reed, with a team of 1-3 volunteers per rider. We have classes on Mondays, Thursdays, and every other Saturday. Riders are in group classes of no more than 3 riders, and classes are approximately 30 minutes long. Riders participate in tasks and games that encourage physical strengthening and cognitive improvement while learning basic riding skills. The emphasis is on developing riding skills in a safe environment that is both therapeutic and fun. Specific goals are set for each rider at the beginning of a session based upon input from the rider’s parents or teachers.
In order to begin participating in our program, you must complete the rider application below and return the originals to CORRAL.
It is through the volunteers and sponsors that CORRAL can offer these services free of charge. Volunteers are responsible for tacking and untacking horses and leading and/or side-walking during a class. If you are interested in volunteering (you must be at least 16 years old) please fill out the form below and stop by to observe a class. We hold volunteer training sessions at least once a year and more as needed.
If you are interested in submitting a RIDER application, to participate, PLEASE CLICK HERE.
If you are interested in becoming a VOLUNTEER, PLEASE CLICK HERE.
