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What Are the Benefits of Therapeutic Riding?

Therapeutic riding helps improve:
- Balance & Coordination
- Muscle Tone & Motor Planning
- Communication & Social Skills
- Confidence & Emotional Regulation

Not sure about equine therapy?

Most Common Questions

A list of answers to the most asked question about equine therapy. Please contact us if you don't see your question, we are to help!

We are

SMART with HEART
Welcome to SMART with HEART. We are a PATH, Intl. Accredited Premier Center.

Welcome to SMART with HEART a PATH Intl. accredited premier center proudly serving Sarasota and Manatee counties. Our Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors teach basic riding and horsemanship skills in an adaptive manner to meet the individual needs of each participant. Our program is designed to benefit our participants physically, socially, cognitively, and emotionally with the assistance of our equines and volunteers who are trained to work with participants of varying abilities.

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We are

Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART)

Welcome to SMART with HEART. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) PATH, Intl. Accredited Premier Center.

Our PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors teach basic riding and horsemanship skills in an adaptive manner to meet the individual needs of each participant. Our program is designed to benefit our participants physically, socially, cognitively, and emotionally with the assistance of our equines and volunteers who are trained to work with participants of varying abilities.

I feel it is a privilege to be a therapist. I love my work. I take a creative and collaborative approach in my practice, researching innovative techniques and information to help you make the changes you desire.

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Need a Solution?

Striding forward through equine-assisted learning.

Explore Our Programs
Our Programs

Striding forward through equine-assisted learning.

Need a Solution?

Explore Our Programs

Therapeutic riding is designed to support people of all ages and abilities. Whether you're navigating a physical disability, emotional trauma, or developmental delay, equine-assisted activities can offer life-changing benefits.

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Did you know

Our Facilities

SMART with HEART is nestled on 23 beautiful acres in Bradenton, Florida, SMART with HEART offers a peaceful, fully-equipped equestrian facility designed for therapeutic riding. From covered arenas to scenic pastures and accessible amenities, every corner of our property supports healing, empowerment, and growth—for individuals of all abilities.

Location: 4640 County Road 675 in Manatee County

Stories of Success

“My son is on the autism spectrum and has always struggled with attention. But when he’s on a horse, something clicks. He listens, he focuses, and he processes instructions like never before. It’s been a beautiful shift.”

Laura G.

Parent of Participant

“As a military veteran battling PTSD, I never expected a horse to become part of my healing. But the quiet strength of these animals—and the respect the instructors show you—makes you believe in yourself again. SMART gave me back a sense of purpose.”

Carlos M.

U.S. Army Veteran

“When my daughter started at SMART, she had difficulty with balance and core strength due to cerebral palsy. Within months, we saw a noticeable improvement, not just physically, but in her motivation to move and try new things. Her riding sessions are the highlight of her week.”

Rachel T.

Parent of Participant
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