title: The effects of horse riding simulation exercise with blindfolding on healthy subjects' balance and gait.
abstract: [Purpose] The study was conducted to determine the effect of horse riding simulation combined with blindfolding on healthy individuals' balance and gait. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty subjects were randomly divided into an experimental group (n=15) and a control group (n=15). The subjects in the experimental group covered their eyes using a blindfold, climbed onto a horse riding simulator, and performed the horse riding simulation exercise. The control group took part in the horse riding exercises without a blindfold. All of the subjects performed the 20 minutes long exercise once a day, five times a week, over a four-week period. [Results] The experimental group showed significant improvement in static balance, dynamic balance, velocity, and cadence compared to pre-intervention measurements. In addition, the control group showed significant improvement in static balance, dynamic balance, single support, and cadence compared to pre-intervention measurements. Significant differences in post-training gains in static balance, dynamic balance, and cadence were observed between the experimental group and the control group. [Conclusion] Subjects that performed horse riding simulation exercise after blindfolding showed significant improvements in balance and cadence compared to the control group.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, College of Kyungbuk, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Hyun Gyu
authors.initials: HG
authors.lastname: Cha
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, College of Kyungbuk, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Byung Joon
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, Sahmyook University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Wan Hee
authors.initials: WH
authors.lastname: Lee
keywords: Balance; Gait; Horse riding simulation