Side Walking in Equine-Assisted Services: A Crucial Role for Both Rider and Volunteer
Equine-assisted services, including equine therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities, offer transformative benefits for individuals with neurological, behavioral, and psychiatric disorders. By engaging with horses, riders can develop strength, balance, coordination, and emotional well-being. But behind every successful therapeutic riding session is a team of dedicated volunteers, and one of the most important roles is that of the side walker.
What is Side Walking?
Side walking is a vital role in equine-assisted activities where a volunteer walks alongside the horse to assist the rider. The responsibilities of a side walker are diverse, ranging from providing physical support to keeping the rider focused on the instructor’s directions. Depending on the rider’s needs, side walkers may help with maintaining balance, offering emotional support, and ensuring overall safety during the session. They are essentially the instructor’s eyes and ears, providing crucial feedback and ensuring the rider’s experience is both safe and beneficial.
Why Does Side Walking Matter to the Rider?
For many riders, side walkers provide the confidence needed to fully engage in the therapeutic experience. Riders with physical disabilities may require physical support to maintain their balance. This is where specific holds come into play, such as the thigh hold and ankle hold. Each of these techniques offers varying levels of physical support tailored to the rider’s specific needs:
- Thigh Hold: This secure hold is ideal for anxious or beginner riders. By placing the forearm across the rider’s thigh with gentle pressure, side walkers offer stability and comfort.
- Ankle Hold: For riders who don’t need help balancing but still require some support, this hold keeps busy feet away from the horse’s side and helps the side walker stay in the proper position.
Aside from these physical supports, side walkers also play a crucial role in helping the rider stay engaged and focused during the lesson. They help the rider pay attention to the instructor and participate actively in the class, which is essential for achieving the goals of equine-assisted activities.
The Benefits of Side Walking for the Volunteer
While side walking is fundamentally about supporting the rider, it also offers significant rewards for the volunteer. Volunteers often form strong bonds with the riders, becoming a source of emotional support and encouragement. These relationships can be profoundly rewarding, providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Side walkers get to witness the growth and achievements of the riders firsthand, whether it’s a breakthrough in communication, improved balance, or simply a smile that lights up the rider’s face.
Side walking is also a fantastic way for volunteers to engage socially, not just with the rider but with the broader therapeutic community. Each session is a unique experience, offering opportunities to learn about the rider’s strengths, challenges, and triumphs. Many side walkers report that these experiences enrich their own lives, offering insights into resilience, patience, and the profound impact of human-animal interactions.
Building Trust Through Side Walking
Side walking is not just about physical support; it’s about building trust. Riders often look forward to seeing “their” side walkers each session, knowing that they are there to support them, not just physically, but emotionally. This trust is fundamental to the success of equine therapeutic riding, as it allows riders to feel safe, supported, and confident.
In Conclusion
Side walking is a cornerstone of equine-assisted services, providing critical support to riders and enriching the lives of volunteers. It’s a role that requires dedication, empathy, and a willingness to form meaningful connections. For those interested in volunteering, side walking offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in someone’s life while experiencing the joy and fulfillment that comes from helping others. So, the next time you see an equine therapeutic riding session, take a moment to appreciate the side walkers—they are truly unsung heroes in the journey towards healing and empowerment.