Riding for the disabled

ACTIVE FUN Horseback riding is a fun recreational activity, offering horse lovers of all ages and abilities enjoyment and friendship, as well as challenge, achievement, confidence and independence.

THERAPY Promoting overall health, it is particularly therapeutic for people with disabilities. The movement of the horse offers a unique form of exercise and rehabilitation. It helps improve balance and posture, as it strengthens muscles throughout the rider’s body. Horse riding involves gentle exercises – leaning forward to pat the horse’s neck and backwards to pat the rump, twisting left and right in the saddle. The Riding for the Disabled Association Australia (RDAA) is a voluntary, non-profit organisation that offers

FANCY A PET FISH? opportunities for anyone with a disability to enjoy safe, healthy, stimulating and therapeutic horserelated activities.

ASSISTANCE

At RDAA centres, each rider is assisted by trained volunteer ‘side walkers’ to ensure they remain secure in the saddle while performing the exercises. To book a horse riding experience, contact your nearest RDAA centre, rda.org.au.