The simple pleasure of being with horses is the cornerstone of all our RDA activities. From that starting point everything else flows – be that freedom of movement, gaining confidence, building relationships, receiving life enhancing physiotherapy or achieving personal goals.

Equine movement provides multidimensional movement, which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. The horse provides a dynamic base of support, making it an excellent tool for increasing core strength and control. Riding also improves balance and it significantly builds overall postural strength and endurance.

RDA rider Lauren explains “horse riding is a form of physical exercise which I really enjoy. – it doesn’t feel like exercise at all because I do it to have fun! Who wants to sit on a bouncy ball in a physiotherapy room when you can sit on a horse!”

Hippotherapy

Herefordshire RDA accepts referrals from doctors and physiotherapists.

Our riders are also able to self-refer or to join us simply for pleasure should they wish. We offer activities for all age groups and wherever possible, to people with any disability.

The cornerstone activity at Herefordshire RDA is hippotherapy. Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational and speech-language therapy treatment that uses the magic of the horse and its unique movement. Specially trained physiotherapists evaluate each potential patient on an individual basis.

Hippotherapy has an immense impact on people suffering from many varied physical disabilities and challenges. Hippotherapy literally means “treatment with the help of the horse”. Whilst sitting astride a horse, the 4-time rhythm of the horse walk actually mimics the pelvic action of our 2-time walk and as a result, is so invaluable in encouraging flexibility and supporting the action of the lymphatic system.