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About Therapeutic
Riding
Through the MTRA, individuals of all ages and abilities are exposed to a sense of freedom
and achievement. For many, horse riding is the only exposure to this kind of mobility and the chance to be involved
in a “Sport” like others. Many cannot run and play ball or hockey. With the help of a horseback-riding
program, designed for young people and adults with varying abilities, many can ride a horse!! For those riders who cannot
walk, the horse is their feet, their vehicle of transport. Not only does this help raise their self-esteem, but it also
teaches them essential skills. It improves balance, creates trust, and creates a friendship between the rider and horse!
Our program helps individuals to gain self-confidence and to experience physical, emotional and mental rewards. The
benefits of Therapeutic Riding are as follows:
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For individuals with impaired mobility, horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves their bodies in a manner similar to
a human walking gait. These riders experience increased balance, coordination, greater strength and muscle control,
and increase range of motion.
- Individuals with learning or mental disabilities
are motivated by riding to increase concentration, patience and discipline. If a psychological or emotional disability
is present, the unique relationship formed with a horse can help improve interpersonal relationships.
Riding Lessons
The MTRA operates in Miramichi and
benefits special needs clients of all ages from school age children to adults. We have two CanTRA inspected facilities,
an indoor riding arena located on the Oldfield Road just off Highway 11, and an outdoor arena located on the North Napan Rd.
We also have CanTRA trained instructors, and we are fully insured through CanTRA and operated by a volunteer board of directors
consisting of instructors and caregivers. Presently we have room for more rider clients and are offering special needs
students and adults the opportunity to ride. Lessons are held once a week for a ½ hour to 1 hour in a block of four weeks.
One student can ride at a time, and riding times are flexible including week days, evenings, and weekends. Cost is $10.00
per ½ hour, or $20.00 per 1 hour, which is a 33 to 50 percent subsidy.
MTRA
is in partnership with Communities Raising Children – Every Child Counts. This allows preschool children ages
4-5 yrs old that are part of PNB’s Early
Intervention Program to ride at
no cost to the family. There is a 100 percent subsidy.
If
you would like more information on therapeutic riding in general, please visit the CanTRA website at www.cantra.ca. If you would like more information
on the Miramichi Therapeutic Riding Association and the riding lessons, or would like to register, please contact Barbara
Ann Flett at (506) 622 – 6863.
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