Therapeutic Riding Program 

North American Riding for the Handicapped Association

The first centers for therapeutic riding in North America began operation in the 1960s. NARHA, formed in 1969, consisted of four member centers and 60 individual members during its founding year. Today, the number of NARHA-affiliated centers and members has drastically increased to more than 550 centers and 3,200 individual members. There are more than 30,000 riders who take part in NARHA programs with the help of 1,100 instructors, 25,000 volunteers, 600 licensed therapists and 4,000 therapy horses.

All NARHA centers are different and operate independently of one another. Based on its qualifications, some centers focus their skills on serving individuals with certain disabilities, such as physical disabilities. Likewise, a center may offer activities in addition to therapeutic riding, such as driving, hippotherapy, vaulting, competition or stable management. Centers range in size from a few to several horses. Some centers are open just during the summer months, while others serve their communities year-round. Likewise, a center's staff varies as well. Some consist of a small staff, and others may utilize several riding instructors, staff therapists, and hundreds of volunteers.

Therapeutic riding requires the use of a mounting block or ramp to assist riders with mounting and dismounting. There are several other types of special equipment to help accommodate special needs. In choosing equipment, the overriding standard is safety. Types of special equipment include clothing, footwear, braces, headgear, stirrups, saddles, seat covers, surcingles, handholds, bridles, reins and leadlines.

P.O. Box 33150
Denver, CO 80233

(800) 369-RIDE (7433)     (303) 452-1212    FAX: (303) 252-4610