Physical Activity and Sleep Improvements in a Group of Equestrian Therapy Volunteers: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This study aims to assess whether participation as a supportive volunteer in equestrian therapy (ET) sessions influences participants’ physiological health-related parameters, including physical activity and sleep. Physical activity, measured in steps, and hours of sleep were measured in 10 subjects who participated regularly as volunteers in ET sessions using a triaxial accelerometer which continuously recorded their activity for 30 days. On the one hand, the subjects showed higher physical activity levels on days when they volunteered in ET sessions versus the days they did not. A significant difference and large effect magnitude were found. On the other hand, on the days they attended ET, they slept an average of 30 minutes more, with significant differences and a moderate effect. Thus, participation as a volunteer in ET sessions seems to have a positive influence on physical activity and sleep time, so it should be recommended as an activity to promote healthy habits.