Reducing anxiety in novel horse riders by a mechanical horse simulator. [Ridurre l'ansia nei cavalieri principianti mediante un simulatore meccanico del cavallo]

Forty-eight riders were subdivided in two groups. The control group practiced a 40 min horse riding lesson twice a week, the experimental group replaced one lesson by two 20 min lessons on the mechanical horse. Mean heart rate (mHR), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), perceived levels of cognitive and somatic state anxiety (S.T.A.I. 1) and individual self-efficacy perception in performing physical activities (S-EMS) were assessed before and at the end of a four week training program. S.T.A.I. 1 and mHR were lower after training in the experimental group, but not in the control group. RPE and SEM-S remained unchanged.