Rider lifts and mounts
Horse-riding is a sporting activity that offers many physical and psychological benefits. Equitherapy is horse-mediated psychological care for people with illnesses or disabilities. For people with reduced mobility, access to this activity can be a challenge.
Rider lifts and mounts are equipment designed to facilitate access to riding, making it more inclusive and safe. In this article, we’ll explore why these devices are essential, how they work, and the benefits they bring to equine therapists, instructors and riding schools.
Inclusive riding: the role of rider lifts and mounts
Riding is an activity rich in benefits, improving motor skills, coordination and self-confidence. However, for people with reduced mobility, straddling can be a major obstacle. Rider lifts and mounts are a valuable aid for both the disabled rider and the equithérapeute.
Wall-mounted straddle lifters operate with a motorized cylinder. These systems, fitted with a hammock seat or strap, pick up the rider from his seat and lift him up to the horse’s saddle.
The rail-mounted straddle lift, with its unique Châssis-Mains system, enables the patient to be lifted from the wheelchair, maintaining the torso by exerting pressure on the thigh supports, and placed on the straddle.
The mounts, with three or four non-slip steps, serve as a stepping stone to help the rider get on the horse.
This easy-to-use equipment is a safe and efficient solution for saddling.
The installation of rider lifts and mounts in equestrian centers has positive repercussions far beyond the individual experience of disabled riders. One of the benefits is a significant reduction in the risk of accidents. This has a direct impact on the work of professionals, who can concentrate on teaching and training.
What’s more, the use of this specialized equipment improves the welcome at equestrian centers. By positioning itself as an inclusive and accessible facility, the center can attract a wider audience and thus combat discrimination.
Equitherapy, an ally for the personal and social development of disabled people
Equitherapy is more than just a leisure activity; it brings significant benefits by improving motor coordination, balance and muscle strength.. Maintaining correct posture on the horse involves a number of muscles, which can be particularly beneficial for people with disabilities.
What’s more, riding has a positive impact on self-confidence. The sense of accomplishment felt when mastering a new skill or overcoming a difficulty is priceless.
Equitherapy is often practised in a group under the supervision of an equitherapist, offering many opportunities for social interaction and teamwork. Riding plays a significant role in the social integration of disabled people. Contact with the animal, other riders and instructors can help break down social barriers and reduce isolation.
Equestrian centers also offer a variety of activities and events to encourage everyone to get involved. This can be particularly beneficial for people who are isolated because of their disability.
Autonomy is an important aspect for disabled people. Equitherapy can play a role in improving independence: in fact, this activity helps develop skills that can be transferred to other areas of life. The coordination and balance acquired through horseback riding can help with everyday tasks.
Riding can also help develop decision-making and problem-solving skills. The rider must assess the situation and make decisions to steer his horse or move along a course. These skills are useful in everyday life and contribute to greater autonomy.
Rider lifts: factors to consider for an informed choice
Choosing a rider lift requires careful thought. Several factors need to be taken into account:
- Lifting capacity: The rider lift or mount must support the user’s weight. This is crucial for personal safety.
- Easy to install and use
- Durability: Choose a model made from high-quality materials to guarantee long life (reduced maintenance and parts replacement costs).
Installation and maintenance are very important aspects in guaranteeing the safety and durability of your equipment. Here are a few points to consider:
- Professional installation
- Regular safety checks: regularly check the condition of the rider lift. This includes checking moving parts, cables, hydraulic and electrical systems, and batteries.
- Preventive maintenance: Regular servicing (greasing moving parts, checking electrical connections and replacing worn parts) extends equipment life and minimizes the risk of accidents.
Finally, the cost of a rider lift can vary considerably depending on features and materials. There are several ways to finance these purchases:
- Subsidies : Equestrian centers may be eligible for subsidies to make their facilities more accessible..
- Participatory financing: this financing helps raise community awareness of the importance of accessibility in sports and leisure activities.
Careful planning and thorough research into financing options can help you make a sound investment in this essential equipment.