Specialist physiotherapy for equine-rider movement interaction
Total Body Riding is a physiotherapy practice dedicated to making the most of the physical connection between horse and rider.
When we ride we are interacting and moving with a living being. Horse and rider develop a physical partnership with each other, where the movement of one affects and influences the movement of the other.
Total Body Riding has a detailed understanding of this complex movement interaction, which is used to help riders progress in their sport and also to deliver equine facilitated therapy to clients with mobility challenges.
Physio for Riding
The goal of riding in harmony with our horse comes from being balanced and symmetrical when we ride, and being able to apply subtle but effective aids to communicate with our equine partner through movement. However, humans (and horses!) are rarely symmetrical and most of us have stiffness, tightness and weakness that restrict our own movement and can compromise that bodily communication with the horse.
Total Body Riding provides detailed assessments of riders, with exercise programmes on and off the horse to target specific areas of imbalance and asymmetry to help improve your riding.
Physiotherapy is offered in tailored one-to-one sessions, group classes and Zoom classes. Total Body Riding sessions can be ground-based or on your horse and it is always beneficial to work alongside your normal instructor or trainer.
Riding for Physio
Just as riders can influence our horse’s movement through our bodies, a horse’s movement will affect the movement, posture and activity of the rider’s body. This three-dimensional equine movement can be harnessed and manipulated into specific physiotherapy exercise programmes for many groups of people who have challenges with their own mobility, balance and coordination, developing challenging and enjoyable rehabilitation.
Total Body Riding uses knowledge of equine movement and human biomechanics to tailor rehabilitation exercises and positioning on the horse. This equine assisted physiotherapy is a highly motivating and effective method of delivering physiotherapy to clients with specific physical needs.
Equine Assisted Physiotherapy can be delivered in an equine environment on the ground, or mounted working with the movement of the horse in hippotherapy sessions.
Location
Total Body Riding is located near Salisbury in Wiltshire, SP5. Appointments can be offered at your home, yard, riding school or educational establishment in Salisbury and the surrounding area.
Equine Assisted Physiotherapy and Hippotherapy sessions are offered as a service at specialist venues in and around Salisbury and the New Forest. Individual sessions using the client’s own horse or pony can be arranged on request.
“Laura is a skilled physiotherapist; she really inspires you to improve and challenge yourself.”
— F, para rider
