LogoStanwood Therapeutic Riding Center                             office (360) 348-7425

"Optimizing Abilities with Equine Partners"


Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic riding is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of ways in which the horse may be used to influence the physical and psychological well-being of individuals. Therapeutic riding incorporates riding skills, learning sty les, movement, motivation with an equine partner, tasks to promote learning, motor planning, muscle stimulation,  relaxation, breathing, concentration, and fun!

Riding leads to increased self-esteem, balance, coordination, sense of responsibility, control of body and mind, kinesthetic awareness, and the stimulation of muscles that may not be challenged in other activities.

The movement of the horse affects both our sensory and motor systems:

Sensory systems affected
  • Vestibular
  • Proprioceptive
  • Kinesthetic
  • Visual
  • Tactile
Motor systems affected
  • Signals to muscles to contract to move the limb or body part
  • Flexibility
  • Balance responses
  • Coordination
  • Strength

For more information about the benefits of therapeutic riding visit the Path International website.

Come visit us
and see what a difference a horse can make!


In Memory of Tami Goff



"Tami Goff held a special place in her heart for all animals, especially horses. She was an avid lifelong rider and strongly supported therapeutic riding. Her giving and dedicated nature has touched many lives. Her love of life and genuine concern for others will be sorely missed. To honor the memory of our generous friend, we have dedicated a memorial fund to support two of the many things she loved most: horses and helping others."
- Natalie Echevarria and Friends