Our program began in 2009 with offering a sponsored therapeutic riding program to the Freedom Riders of Freedom Recreation, Cayuga County NY. Makin' Memories is now pleased to be able to offer individual lessons in addition to continuing to work with the Freedom Riders. Equine-assisted therapies such as horseback riding can provide an individual with great physical and emotional rewards. The rhyth
mic motion of a horse moves the rider's body, helping to improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength. Horses in a therapy setting can help to improve the rider's social and emotional well-being through developing a bond with the animal, encouraging interaction (both with the horse and volunteers), and fostering self-esteem. We strive to make it a fun and enjoyable, yet also challenging experience for the rider. We ask that anyone wanting to undergo our Therapeutic Riding program receive clearance to do so from medical personnel such as a family doctor or specialist. Lesson programs can be designed to help in specific ways such as developing core body strength, flexibility, eye-hand coordination, etc, in addition to teaching riding techniques and skills. Our goal is to help our students improve and some are even able to achieve true independence in their riding. Our programs are designed around rider experience and knowledge desires. Topics often include groundwork and horsemanship, horse behavior, general care and maintenance, and of course proper riding techniques. We have several lesson horses available and trailer ins are welcome. We can also provide hands-on-only (no riding) type of therapies.
