The Life-Changing Impact of RDA Group Equi-Power

Equi-Power is a Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) group based in Scotland, offering equestrian vaulting lessons for young people with disabilities and additional support needs. Combining elements of gymnastics and dance performed on horseback, equestrian vaulting provides physical, emotional, and social benefits to participants. The programme is designed to support young people of various abilities, helping them build confidence, resilience, and independence.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen Miriam truly ignite with excitement for an activity. She absolutely comes alive when she’s on the horse. While I was hopeful about the benefits of equestrian vaulting, I never anticipated how quickly it would impact her, or how many aspects of her life it would touch.” – Jay Brownlee, mother of 11-year-old Miriam Brownlee.

Equi-Power’s experienced coaches create a supportive yet challenging environment, encouraging participants to push themselves at their own pace. “The coaches encourage participants to push themselves, but in a way that’s suited to each individual.” This tailored approach fosters perseverance, as participants are encouraged to continue trying, even when they don’t master a skill on the first attempt, helping to build resilience and determination.

Equestrian vaulting also helps improve physical skills such as balance, coordination, and body awareness. The movement of the horse aids in developing proprioception, which is especially beneficial for young people who struggle with body awareness or sensory processing challenges. For Miriam, Jay notes, “The large, rhythmic movements of riding help her connect with her body and better understand her physical sensations.”

The programme also promotes social interaction, allowing participants to develop important social skills by engaging with both peers and coaches in a group setting. “The environment is so supportive, and the other competitors are welcoming and helpful,” says Jay, reflecting on the inclusive atmosphere at competitions. “It’s amazing to see the camaraderie and understanding that transcends the competition.”

For children with autism, equestrian vaulting offers sensory benefits as well. Jay explains how Miriam, who sometimes struggles with sensory processing, benefits from the programme: “Miriam sometimes has difficulty interpreting the signals her body sends—whether it’s needing to use the bathroom, feeling too hot or cold, or even recognising pain. She once walked on a broken foot for two days because she didn’t realise how badly it hurt.”

Equi-Power also helps participants develop self-care skills. Jay shares how Miriam’s ability to groom the horses has been particularly beneficial: “Grooming the horses is incredibly beneficial for her. It’s a non-confrontational way to address tasks she sometimes finds challenging, like washing or brushing the horse.” The programme provides an opportunity to practise responsibilities such as personal care, without direct confrontation, using the horse as a focal point.

Another key aspect of the programme is its inclusivity. Miriam and other participants compete in mainstream equestrian competitions alongside participants without disabilities. This inclusive approach gives them the chance to engage in healthy competition in a welcoming and supportive environment. Jay reflects, “She didn’t come last as it happens but she came quite low down in the rankings, however, she was still so incredibly happy and proud of herself!”

Equi-Power also offers a sense of community for parents of children with disabilities. Jay shares how meaningful it has been to connect with other parents through the programme: “I was desperately seeking a group of parents who understood the challenges of raising a child with autism. Equi-Power has given me the opportunity to connect with other parents who truly understand. I never imagined that Miriam’s participation would benefit me in such a profound way.”

Equi-Power RDA continues to provide life-changing opportunities for young people with disabilities. By helping them build confidence, develop new skills, and participate in the broader community, the programme has a lasting impact on the lives of its participants and their families.