The opening of an indoor riding arena took place at the Krylatye Kacheli Hippotherapy Center at Derzhavin University.
The Center was created in August 2022 with funds from benefactors of Tambov and the region. Its goal is the rehabilitation and treatment of children with musculoskeletal disorders and mental disorders. The center uses technologies based on horseback riding and communication with horses.
– This place has a special meaning for Derzhavin University. It was here, on the site of the former University zoo, that the hippotherapy center grew up. It was created by people driven by the desire to do good. It is symbolic that today, on the day of the end of the three-day forum “Family – the Fourth Mission of the University”, we are opening an indoor arena. This reflects our traditional values – support for the family and care for others. Our project has been supported by dozens of families in the region with children who need therapy. And we see how important our work is for them, – comments Pavel Moiseev, Rector of Derzhavin University. – In addition, the Center is a base for the practice of our students in the Clinical Psychology and Adaptive Physical Education programs.
The Hippotherapy Center already has stables, a parade ground, paddocks and other infrastructure facilities. The center's main activities are hippotherapy classes for children with disabilities, and classes with elements of hippovention for adults.
– Since the Center was founded, we have already held more than a thousand classes with special children, – says Konstantin Popov, Director of the Hippotherapy Center “Winged Swings”. – Thanks to the new indoor arena, we will be able to increase the number of classes to 70-80 per month, which will allow us to accept more children. We will be able to ensure that the Center operates year-round. The closed premises protect from bad weather and unnecessary noise, helping the child and the hippotherapist to concentrate on work. The arena has a special mantle for mounting a horse, and a comfortable area with an infrared emitter has been created for parents. In addition, the arena opens up new opportunities for expanding the program of classes, including the use of musical instruments and various game elements that were impossible outdoors. Now we can create the most favorable conditions for each child.
Certified hippotherapists work with children at the Center. The program of classes is compiled based on the individual characteristics and diagnosis of each child.
