What Is Therapeutic Horseback Riding?

For many people horseback riding is a thrilling experience, but for people with disabilities it means much more than fun -- it can be their path towards a fuller life. Therapeutic riding is horseback riding adapted to people with disabilities and is recognized worldwide as an effective method of rehabilitation and recreation. Riding is the only known genuine 'walking substitute' for people unable to walk. Besides demonstrating excellent improvements of their overall physical condition-especially for those with impaired neuromuscular functions-horseback riding gives a sense of satisfaction and can offer new opportunities to those with disabilities.

Goals of Therapeutic Riding

1. Disabled riders gain an improved overall physical condition:
   • reduced muscle spasms and cramping
   • increased mobility and endurance
   • improved circulation, digestion and breathing
   • reduced need for muscle relaxants and painkillers
2. Participants with disabilities learn to ride:
   • they master basic riding skills
   • some become totally independent riders
   • selected riders will be prepared for sporting competition
3. Help in psychological and social integration:
   • greatly increased number of social contacts
   • quality structuring of time
   • a reduced sense of social isolation, etc.
4. Volunteers:
   • overcome prejudice felt toward the disabled
   • learn how to work with people with disabilities

Our Horses

Each of our 15 horses -- Krila's four-legged therapists -- are truly individuals. They differ not only in their appearance and conformation, but also by their walk and overall character. So each rider can find a horse that suits him or her.

Horses, like people, each have their life story:  Asja lost her home during the war, and found a new one at Krila. Her foal, Azaro, is our youngest horse (we call him Little Fats). Sumas (pronounced 'shumash') and Loton were born abroad but have found a common language with their riders.