Sarasota Manatee Association Therapeutic Horseback Riding

The therapeutic riding program at SMART is designed to have a positive impact on our rider's ability to develop life skills. Participation in the program will assist their transition into low- supported or independent functioning within the community where each individual will live, learn, work and play.

SMART bases its therapeutic riding program on good horsemanship, sound riding techniques and therapeutic and hippotherapy standards that are approved by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, Intl (PATH Intl.) The general goals concentrate on the respectful and empathetic care and handling of a horse and riding skills. The riding lessons challenge the rider physically, cognitively and emotionally. A lesson usually includes mounting, warm-up, review of previously learned skills, introduction of new skill, game or activity, cool down, dismount and care of tack and horse.