Horseback riding as medicine: rehabilitation at the Arkadag Children's Center

Horseback riding as medicine: rehabilitation at the Arkadag Children's Center
22 09.04.2026

In the city of Arkadag, the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre actively employs modern health restoration methods, including regular sessions of hippotherapy. Horse riding therapy takes place in the indoor riding arena of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and combines physical rehabilitation with psychological support, reports IIC.

The horse’s biorhythmic movements stimulate the nervous system, normalise muscle function, and develop coordination and balance. Interaction with the animals boosts the children’s confidence and aids their social adaptation. Ahal-Teke horses, known for their sensitivity and patience and traditionally regarded as a source of spiritual strength for the Turkmen people, are particularly valuable in this process.

This method has seen significant development due to the initiatives of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The centre’s collaboration with the International Academy of Horse Breeding allows national traditions to be combined with modern medical approaches. Today, hippotherapy in the city of Arkadag is yielding noticeable results, supporting the health and well-being of children.