Equine therapy in San Vicente de la Barquera

Equine therapy is a form of horse-assisted therapy that offers physical, emotional, and social benefits to people with special needs. At San Vicente de la Barquera, we offer an ideal environment for this therapy to take place, taking advantage of nature and the tranquility of the environment. Our equine therapy is based on three main modalities: hippotherapy, therapeutic horseback riding and adapted horseback riding, each designed to address different therapeutic needs and goals.



Equine therapy modalities:



Hippotherapy



• Description: Hippotherapy is a technique that uses the movements of the horse as a therapeutic tool for people with physical disabilities, both congenital and acquired. The horse's body heat, its rhythmic impulses and the three-dimensional movement it generates are transmitted to the rider, helping to improve mobility, balance and posture.
• Benefits: It improves coordination, increases muscle tone, facilitates relaxation and stimulates the central nervous system. It is especially beneficial for people with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or after a stroke.



Therapeutic Riding



• Description: This modality uses the bond and contact with the horse as a tool to improve the ability to learn and adapt in people with disabilities. The horse acts as a natural motivator that helps users develop cognitive, emotional, and social skills.
• Benefits: It increases motivation, improves attention and concentration, stimulates affectivity and tactile, visual, auditory and olfactory sensitivity. In addition, it promotes autonomy and decision-making skills, being especially useful for people with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome or learning difficulties.



Adapted riding



• Description: Adaptive horseback riding is aimed at people who want to practice horseback riding recreationally or sportingly, but who need special accommodations due to a disability. This modality allows horseback riding to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive limitations.

• Benefits: It encourages inclusion in recreational and sports activities, improves confidence and self-esteem, and offers a safe and adapted way to enjoy equestrian sport.