Opening Gaits Therapeutic Riding Center
Providing personal growth through success in therapeutic riding & horsemanship
At Ashvana Stables 401 main road gill, ma 01354 USA 413 863-0002

What is Therapeutic Riding?
The gait of a walking horse simulates the movement in the hips and pelvis of a human walking. This movement, while on the horse, stimulates the central nervous system and strengthens core muscles. Therapeutic Riding benefits individuals with physical, emotional and neurological disabilities because it works on three levels: physical, emotional, mental.

what are the benefits?

Emotional

Cognitive

Physical

	Relationship building
	Self awareness
	Confidence
	Self esteem
	Trust

	Cognition Skills
	Spatial awareness
	Language skills
	Perceptual skills
	Fine motor coordination

	Muscle tone
	Trunk control
	Balance
	Posture
	Motor development
	Range of motion

Photos by Heather Bell

How can I schedule a lesson?
We have moved to an application process. Call for an application or print one and mail to us. Upon receipt of completed application, we will set up an intake and assessment appointment to go over (and sign) the Conduct Policy and Program Enrollment Contract.

We will focus on a small group format in order to accommodate more riders and make the best use of our volunteers' and instructors' time. We are unable to design a weekly, private slot for riders. Private slots are available for riders new to therapeutic riding only.

2008 Series
Spring 10 Week Series- March 18th-May 31st
       no classes April 21st -April 27th (Ashvana Vacation Camp only)
Summer 8 Week Series- June 16th-August 16th
      no classes July 14th-19th (Ashvana Vacation Camp only)
      no classes August 18th-22nd (Ashvana Vacation Camp only)
Fall 10 Week Series - September 8th- November 22nd