Horse Riding
Horse riding and carriage driving
Horse Riding
Horse sports are great for people of all ages and abilities. From a gentle walk in the countryside to the thrill of showjumping, there are activities to suit everyone. Riding and carriage driving are great for general fitness, balance, coordination and core strength. Unlike other sports, the added element of the horse offers the chance to build a unique partnership with an animal. Learning to work together, grow in confidence together and achieve together is a truly rewarding experience.
Get involved
Whether for therapy, enjoying time outdoors or developing new skills – horses offer a welcoming space for everyone. Some people choose to take part with a prosthetic and some without. This generally comes down to personal choice and comfort.
If you are not sure whether horse sports are suitable for you, contact a centre or organisation with experience of working with people with limb loss, such as RDA (see below).
What equipment do I need?
If you get into the sport, you’ll doubtless want to buy your own riding hat, but most centres will supply one. Apart from that, check with your riding school, you shouldn't need any special clothing when trying horse riding out – just dress for the outdoors.
For more information on your first lesson, visit the British Equestrian website.
Start your equestrian journey with Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
RDA is the UK’s leading organisation providing equestrian opportunities for disabled people. As the first port of call for anyone with a disability seeking to get involved with horses, they provide opportunities for children and adults through riding, carriage driving and a range of equine‑assisted activities.
Visit rda.org.uk to find out more.
Fancy developing your skills?
There are many options to get involved and excel within the equestrian community with a range of equestrian disciplines on offer. Para equestrian sports include:
- Carriage driving - Offered by RDA and British Carriagedriving
- Dressage - Offered by RDA and British Dressage
- Endurance - Offered by Endurance GB
- Showjumping - Offered by British Showjumping
