Child horse harmony in motion: a preliminary study to explore heart rate synchronization in equine assisted therapy for neurotypical and ADHD children

Equine-Assisted Services (EAS) encompass a range of therapeutic interventions utilizing equine interactions to achieve therapeutic goals. This study explores heart rate synchronization between horses and riders during mounted and unmounted interactions, focusing on its potential implications for emotional regulation. A total of 25 participants aged 6-12 took part in the study, which included two groups: novice riders diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (n = 15) and experienced neurotypical riders (n = 10). Heart rate measurements were obtained using Polar^® Equine and Verity Sense Optical Heart Rate Sensors. Results indicate mutual heart rate synchronization between horses and riders, suggesting a potential mechanism for emotional regulation. The neurotypical group showed high levels of synchronization, suggesting that rider experience influences the physiological connection between horse and rider., while notably, children with ADHD demonstrated above-average synchronization by their fourth to sixth EAS session. These findings underscore the significance of EAS in promoting physiological and emotional well-being, particularly for individuals with ADHD. This study contributes to the understanding of the physiological mechanisms underlying therapeutic effect of EAS interventions and highlights their potential in clinical practice. Further research is needed to examine the mechanisms, stability, and therapeutic significance of horse-human physiological synchronization over time, including how synchronization patterns evolve with rider experience and influence therapeutic outcomes in children with ADHD.