At The Shea Center, one method of steering a horse during a hippotherapy treatment is called ground driving. Ground driving involves “driving”, or controlling, the horse from behind with long lines attached to the bridle. This technique is used to optimize the horse’s movement as a therapy tool and is often used in lieu of a leader holding a lead rope at the front and leading from a horse’s halter. There are many benefits to ground driving in a hippotherapy treatment for both horse and rider. As a therapy tool, ground driving the horse enhances the horse’s gait quality. This enhanced gait and movement of the horse mimics the natural three-dimensional movement of a human walking and improves the rider’s strength, balance, and sensory integration. This intentional movement is used to meet a client’s clinical objectives as well as build confidence for everyday tasks.

By driving a horse from behind, the horse handler can get a more extended and fluid walk, engaging the horse’s hind legs, which lifts and strengthens the back and activates muscles in the core and haunches. Encouraging the horse to engage its core and haunches from behind results in a stronger and more confident horse. Ground driving helps to keep The Shea Center horses physically fit and mentally engaged, which is critical for long-term therapy work.