Youth who spend time with their parents participating in activities together build a positive sense of self-worth. Families who share everyday activities together form strong, emotional ties. When youth feel that they are valued by their parents, they feel more positive about themselves.

Being in the barn grooming, feeding, and otherwise caring for horses reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and improves overall health. Yet, it is the companionship with our equine partners that is the foundation of our growth in relationship to these animals. Being with our horses is “therapy.”

The physical demands of maintaining balance and posture while riding engage core muscles, lower body strength, and back muscles. This full-body workout improves flexibility, enhances muscle tone, and promotes cardiovascular health.

Accountability, self-discipline, patience, and responsibility are some traits that equestrian activities teaches youth. Essential traits like perseverance, consistency, and patience become a permanent part of their personality.

Leadership, teamwork, and cooperation are the most demanded skills in life. Youth who remained involved in equestrian activities improved their problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills.

Socialization is one of the key benefits for youth. Equestrian activities allows youth to socialize with others during horse shows, trail rides, and visits to training barns.

The benefits of equestrian activities include boosted confidence, as participants must take on new challenges, master new skills and often get out of their comfort zone.

Equestrian activities can be used to treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, dementia and other mental health difficulties.

More than 85% of riders claim that horseback riding created feelings of relaxation and happiness. Riders report a significantly higher sense of physical and emotional well-being and happiness.