Oreo, the mechanical horse bought by Muirfield Riding Therapy (MRT) 9 years ago, thanks to a very generous donation, brings a variety of benefits to the rider which many are not aware. Charlie Kay explores why MRT believe Oreo’s movement and paces are just as therapeutic as a real life hairy horse.  This new perspective of riding was introduced at MRT for a staggering £53,000, but believe it or not works out much cheaper than the real thing, long term, and is certainly much cleaner than the real thing!

 

My name is Charlie Kay and I have been going to MRT for over 13 years, riding a variety of different live horses and the mechanical horse, Oreo. I am 17 years of age and have Diplegic Cerebral Palsy, Cerebral Visual Impairment and I use a walker and wheelchair for mobility.  Over the years the benefits to me have been vast through riding and I strongly believe I have good physical and mental health as a result.  

 

Last year I was given a choice of what type of riding I would like to continue with during my therapy sessions. I chose to ride Oreo on a Wednesday evening session.  People often ask, ‘why would you choose a mechanical horse over the real life hairy beast? What could it possibly give you a live horse can’t?’  It wasn’t because I disliked the live horses, or didn’t see the benefit, not at all, I love them. I wanted to see what additional benefits it could give me and what new skills I could get.  It exceeded my expectations so let me share my experience and the reasons behind my decision. 

 

New skills

I started riding a real horse with the MRT at 3 years of age. It has always been a beneficial way for me to get physical and mental exercise and try something outside my comfort zone.  Then Oreo was introduced, an alternative to the real horse. I gave it a go and my experience on the mechanical horse has been amazing.   

 

It’s great for muscle strength and posture, and I consider it very safe and predictable, especially if you are just starting out on your riding journey. I have always felt I can achieve the same results in a shorter period of time compared to the live horse.  As a relatively new rider my confidence was elevated massively, giving me more of a positive perception of the riding experience. I do also think there is the added bonus of no mess to clean up, which I assume people do not look forward to doing with the real horses! 

 

I have experienced complex dressage with the use of the leg controls and the reins, incorporating different speeds (even medium canter) and movements. I wouldn’t have had this opportunity on a live horse at this stage, but because of the controlled environment around Oreo I always feel safe and secure with the fantastic team supporting me and encouraging me.  

 

Oreo Coach, Nicky

A variety of coaches have supported me with Oreo, the most consistent being Nicola Robson, or Nicky as she’s known at MRT, a long standing member of the team. An experienced coach of 20 years, she is a key driver in the mechanical horse initiative at MRT.  As an asthma sufferer, working with the mechanical horse was the best option for her to continue her passion for coaching. A great benefit for riders who suffer allergies.  

 

I recently interviewed Nicola about the benefits of the mechanical horse and why people should consider Oreo as an alternative or complementary therapy. As well as the physical benefits of the movement of Oreo Nicky explained:    

 

The rider can experience a visual interactive adventure on the screen visiting the beach and forests. This experience is especially beneficial to those with neurodiverse conditions 

 

Nicky went onto explain: 

 

Oreo provides an opportunity for the more confident rider to take part in dressage lessons which test the riders balance and allows them to learn the more complex movements with the help of an experienced one to one coach who will help them reach their full potential.

 

Nicky and MRT volunteers are working hard to change rider’s perception of Oreo and help people understand;  

 

Oreo is just as therapeutic as a cuddly live, hairy pony but in some respects a more challenging, rewarding experience.

 

I want you to look past only riding a hairy beast as the ‘mane’ attraction and complement it with this new, exciting riding experience that can only enhance a rider’s confidence, skills and long term benefits.  

 

(L-R) Charlie, on Oreo, with Coach Nicky and volunteer Carol