Ride Above Disability

Equestrian Facility in Poway, California

5(9 reviews)
(858) 349-169215529 Sycamore Canyon Rd, Poway, CA 92064View on Yelp
Ride Above Disability - equestrian in Poway, CA

Customer Reviews

5
out of 5
9 reviews

Based on Yelp ratings

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About Ride Above Disability

Ride Above Disability is a five-star equestrian program based in Poway, California, earning a perfect 5.0 rating from 9 reviews. The facility specializes in therapeutic and adaptive horseback riding, making it a genuinely unique offering in the San Diego County equestrian community. Poway's established horse community and peaceful open spaces provide an ideal environment for the kind of calm, intentional riding sessions that adaptive programs require. For riders with physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities, finding a qualified facility like this one can be genuinely life-changing in ways that a standard riding school simply can't replicate.

Services

Horseback Riding

Services & Process

Ride Above Disability offers horseback riding specifically structured for individuals with disabilities, drawing on the well-documented physical and emotional benefits of equine-assisted activities. Sessions are tailored to each rider's needs, with trained staff and volunteers assisting on the ground while the rider works with the horse. The rhythmic movement of a horse walking closely mirrors the human gait, which is a core reason therapeutic riding is used to support individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy, autism, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries. Programs often include goal-setting with families or caregivers so each session builds toward meaningful personal milestones.

Service Area

Ride Above Disability serves riders primarily from Poway and across San Diego County, including families from Escondido, El Cajon, Chula Vista, and the broader metro area who travel specifically for this type of specialized programming. Given the scarcity of quality therapeutic riding programs in Southern California, the facility draws clients from well beyond its immediate neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What disabilities or conditions can therapeutic horseback riding help with?
Therapeutic riding has been used to support individuals with a wide range of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, PTSD, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injury. The specific benefits vary by individual, but improvements in balance, core strength, focus, and emotional regulation are commonly reported by participants and caregivers.
Is therapeutic horseback riding safe for children with significant physical limitations?
Yes, when conducted by trained staff at a qualified facility, therapeutic riding is designed to accommodate a wide range of physical abilities. Riders are supported by side-walkers on the ground and a leader guiding the horse, so no rider is ever unsupported, and sessions are paced entirely to the individual's comfort and capacity.
Do participants need any prior horse experience to join Ride Above Disability's program?
No prior experience is needed or expected. In fact, most participants in therapeutic riding programs have never been near a horse before starting. Part of the intake process involves introducing the rider to the horse in a calm, gradual way to build comfort before any riding begins.
How is Ride Above Disability different from a standard riding lesson?
Standard riding lessons focus on developing equestrian technique and are designed for able-bodied riders building sport-specific skills. Therapeutic riding is structured around individualized therapeutic goals, with trained volunteers, adaptive equipment, and specific horse selection all playing a role in supporting each unique rider's needs.
Does insurance or Medicaid cover therapeutic horseback riding in California?
Coverage varies widely depending on the insurer and the specific program's accreditation status. Some families have had success getting reimbursement by submitting documentation through their occupational or physical therapist, so it's worth exploring that route. Contacting Ride Above Disability directly at (858) 349-1692 is the best first step to understand current funding or scholarship options.
How do I know if my family member is a good candidate for therapeutic riding?
A good starting point is speaking with the rider's physician or therapist to get their input on whether equine-assisted activities could be beneficial. Ride Above Disability's intake team can also help assess suitability during an initial conversation, taking into account the individual's needs, any contraindications, and what the program can realistically offer.

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