Adaptive riding is taught by PATH Intl. certified therapeutic riding instructors (CTRI) and the overall goal is for each client to reach his or her highest level of independence in mounted and non-mounted equine activities. Some riders are independent at the walk, trot, and canter, or are learning to canter on a lunge line, while others are working on properly holding their reins.

Adaptive riding can evolve into a life-long activity, helps develop balance, flexibility, confidence, and is fun! It makes a positive impact on the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being of people with disabilities.

The ‘adaptive’ part of adaptive riding can refer to special tack or teaching methods.

Who is PATH International?

PATH Intl. was founded in 1969 to promote safe and effective therapeutic — also known as adaptive — horseback riding throughout the United States and Canada. Today, PATH Intl. has 813 member centers and nearly 7,000 individual members in countries all over the world who help and support more than 53,300 men, women and children — including nearly 6,000 veterans — with special needs each year through a variety of equine-assisted services (PATH Intl. website).

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