Bonilla Yacelga, Kléver ArmandoVoznesenskyy, Sergiy2023-11-042023-11-042016-051877-042810.1016/j.sbspro.2016.10.140https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309480296_Do_Equine-assisted_Physical_Activities_Help_to_Develop_Gross_Motor_Skills_in_Children_with_the_Down_Syndrome_Short-term_Resultshttps://repositorio.puce.edu.ec/handle/123456789/6254Background. Equine-assisted physical activities are believed to improve the physical, psychological, and social wellbeing of special needs populations. Methods. A study was conducted to assess the effect of an equine-assisted physical activity and an adaptive horseback riding program in comparison with conventional adapted physical education designed to develop gross motor skills measured by the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88) in children with Down syndrome in a special education institution. Results. According to the fitted ordinary least squares and robust regression models, the equine-assisted activities program had, on average, a large positive effect on children's gross motor development in comparison to the conventional physical education in the control group for 3 months. Conclusion. Evidence is provided with regard to the short-term improvement of the gross motor function in children with Down syndrome participating in equine-assisted activities, in comparison to regular adapted physical education, in a special education institution. Further research is needed to assess medium and long term effects of equine-assisted activities on gross motor development in children with Down syndrome.OpenAccessTerapia asistida con animalesCaballosSíndrome de DownFisioterapia