What is an additional role of the horse leader besides leading?

The role of the horse leader extends beyond simply leading the horse; it includes aiding in horse movements that align with the needs of the rider. This involves understanding the horse's behavior, responding to its cues, and facilitating its movements to support the rider during therapeutic sessions. The horse leader must be attuned to the rider's abilities and needs, coordinating the horse's actions to enhance the therapeutic experience. This might mean guiding the horse in specific directions, managing speed, or helping the horse navigate obstacles, which all contribute to the effectiveness of the therapeutic riding session.

While providing emotional support, managing group dynamics, and ensuring the safety of spectators are important considerations within a therapeutic riding environment, they do not encapsulate the specific physical interaction and engagement required to support the rider through the horse's movement. The primary focus of the horse leader's role, in conjunction with leading, is to facilitate a safe and beneficial riding experience for the rider, which heavily involves coordinating the horse's movements.