Windrush Farm

"Changing lives, one stride at a time, one smile at a time".

Therapeutic Riding Lessons | Horses for Heroes (Veteran's Program) | Interactive Vaulting | Equine Facilitated Learning | Vocational Programs | Horsemanship Programs | Barn Buddy Program | Summer Programs |

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Therapeutic Riding Lessons

Horseback riding for adults and children with special needs is recognized as one of the more progressive forms of therapeutic recreation. The ability to control a horse as well as one's own body inspires self-confidence, responsibility and teamwork. Best of all, it is a thoroughly enjoyable experience, which creates a special relationship between rider and horse and promotes personal growth and achievement.

  • From the moment the rider first mounts the horse, they begin to improve their balance, coordination and self-assurance because they are receiving therapeutic muscle stimulation through the 3 dimensional movement of the horse.

  • As the horse is asked to change direction, modulate speed, and make gait transitions riders are continually making adjustments in their position to accommodate the movements. These adjustments help to strengthen their core muscles and posture, creating increased proximal stability.

  • As a result of carefully planned lessons (with individual rider goals and lesson objectives) balance, posture, strength, flexibility, and motor planning improve. Riders are then ready to begin developing riding aides to communicate with the horse. As riders learn an aid they are asked to use the new skill in games or activities.

  • Each riding skill (such as steering the horse) is broken down into a sequence of small manageable tasks. This allows each rider to learn in a progressive manner that accommodates their individual strengths and weaknesses and allows them to achieve at their own pace.

  • Group lessons encourage the development of positive social skills and allows for growth in areas such as leadership.

  • A strong sense of responsibility develops as the rider learns to take part in the care of the horses and equipment and develops an empathy with their equine partner.

  • Advanced equestrian skills, teamwork and cooperation are learned as the rider becomes independent on horseback.

  • New riding activities, games, and horse shows encourage confidence, self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment as new levels of expertise and new goals are met.

  • Vocational skills can be developed as participants move into the areas of horse care and mgmt and the upkeep of the horse farm itself.

Whether an individual wants to increase their core muscle tone so that they can sit for longer periods of time, increase strength and flexibility in their legs to improve their mobility, increase self-esteem and self confidence, work on cognitive and learning skills, or just have fun enjoying a special relationship with their horse, Therapeutic Riding at Windrush is a great choice.

For more on benefits, click here.

TR at Windrush

Riding at Windrush makes me feel good...just plain old good!”
-Windrush Student

Watch a video about therapeutic riding...click here

Learn about rates and how to register...click here

Questions? Email Susan Lutz at susan@windrushfarm.org or
978-682-7855

Rates: One Hour Group Lesson=$45

Lessons are sold in sessions: fall, winter and spring. For summer offerings, click here.

Installment plans are available and credit cards are accepted.

If you are interested in therapeutic riding lessons, please visit the form center and complete an application.

Or you may contact Susan Lutz, Program Director for more information.