Adaptive Riding & Horsemanship
Our Adaptive Riding and Horsemanship program is designed to support individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional or developmental challenges. Led by qualified instructors and supported by trained volunteers, lessons use structured activities to help participants improve balance, coordination, strength, communication, social connection, and overall well-being.
Join Our Program
1
Complete Forms
Download and complete our New Participant Application and Doctor Form
2
Send Forms
Send completed forms.
email to: info@freereinspokane.org
or
mail to: PO Box 30893, Spokane WA 99223
3
Attend Assessment
Once a spot becomes available, we will contact you to schedule an assessment. Following a successful assessment, participants are then scheduled for weekly classes.
About
Eligibility: ages 4+ and up
Weight Limit for Riding: 140 pounds for unbalanced riders
Adaptive riding is a recreational activity that focuses on increasing individual riding skills while gaining a therapeutic benefit, modified to safely and appropriately serve individuals living with disabilities. Horsemanship focuses on building a relationship with the horse from the ground. Participants learn how to safely approach, lead, groom, and communicate with the horse while developing trust, confidence, and teamwork.
At the beginning of each session, the instructor works with the rider and their supporters to develop goals specific to the participant's needs. The highly individualized lessons take into account the participant's physical, emotional, and mental strengths and limitations.
Benefits
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Greater physical strength and core stability
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Increased balance and mobility
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Refined hand-eye coordination
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Stronger self-esteem, self-control, and confidence
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Expanded social connection and communication skills
Diagnoses Served
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Physical disabilities
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Developmental disabilities
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Intellectual disabilities
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Autism Spectrum Disorder
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Emotional challenges
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Behavioral challenges
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Mental health needs
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Neurological conditions
New Participant Assessment
A new participant assessment is an individual class where we get to know each potential participant's experience, goals, and comfort level. During this time, we evaluate basic riding and horsemanship skills, as well as physical and cognitive abilities, to determine whether or program can safely and effectively accommodate each participant with an appropriate horse, volutneers, and instructor. In some cases, we use the MiraColt as a safe, supportive way to help us understand a rider's unique needs.
Fees
Assessment Fee: $35 (once, at the time of the initial assessment)
Annual Insurance Fee: $50 (once per calendar year)
Adaptive Class (30-60 minutes): $75 per class (i.e. 10 weeks = $750)
Need-based scholarships are available; email us to learn more.
Class Information
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Weekly classes are 30-60 minutes
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Sessions run 6-10 weeks and are offered in the winter, spring, summer, and fall
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Most classes are small groups of 2-3 participants who are similar in age, cognitive level, and skill level
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All lessons are taught by an instructor trained in PATH Intl. safety standards
MiracoltTM
A MiracoltTM is a medical-grade riding simulator that mimics the movement of a horse. At Free Rein, it allows participants to experience the repetitive, rhythmic, and multi-dimensional motion of riding in a safe, controlled environment.
We use the MiracoltTM for some initial rider assessments, during inclement weather, when horses may not be available, and for participants who may need to develop a stronger foundation of balance, flexibility, and muscular control before safely riding a live horse. It helps riders build strength, coordination, and confidence while preparing for the full adaptive riding experience.
Mechanical
Lift
Thanks to the generosity of The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and other local supporters, Free Rein is proud to offer a SureHands mechanical lift, enabling safe and comfortable transfers onto the horse for riders who use wheelchairs. This helps ensure a smooth, secure experience for both the rider and the horse, and makes it possible for more individuals to participate in our programs with confidence and independence.