If you’ve ever been to a horse riding centre, you probably noticed that the owners and staff all wear protective clothing and helmets. This is no coincidence. Riding is an inherently risky activity and horse riding is no exception. The likelihood of injury increases with the amount of time spent on horseback and the risk increases even more if you are a novice rider. Luckily, most common injuries resulting from horseback riding can be prevented with proper education, preparation, and gear.In this article, we cover everything you need to know about what it takes to be a safe rider and how to stay injury-free when out on the trail with your horse. We also discuss which protective gear you should have in your horse riding gear bag. Read on for more information about equestrian safety and how to make sure you don’t end up in the hospital!
What are the risks involved in horseback riding?
There are many risks involved in horseback riding that can lead to injury, including falling off the horse, being kicked, or being bitten. Riding is a high-impact sport that can put you at risk for sprains, strains, fractures, and other injuries. The risk of injury depends on many factors including the horse’s temperament, your skill level, and the environment.Risks associated with horseback riding include:- Falls: Falls are the most frequent cause of horse-related injuries. Falls from the horse can result in head injuries, broken bones, or soft tissue injuries. Falls from the horse can also lead to lacerations. - Being bitten by the horse: The majority of bites from horses are minor, but some of them can lead to serious infections.- Being kicked by the horse: Being kicked by the horse can result in bruising, swelling, and possible nerve damage.- Other injuries: Other injuries from horseback riding can include sprains, strains, fractures, and broken bones.
The importance of being a safe rider
While it is a common misconception that everything on a horse is sharp, this is not the case. If you use common sense and take precautions, you can ride without risking injury. Here are some tips to becoming a safe rider:- Always ride at a steady and safe speed. You should take breaks to check your horse’s condition and adjust the girth. You also don’t want to ride too fast, especially when you’re just learning.- Never ride without using a protective saddle pad. Sitting on a hard saddle without protection can lead to bruises and pressure sores.- Always use the proper safety gear.- Wear a helmet at all times.
Helmet safety
To become a safe rider, you must also wear a helmet. A helmet can protect you from injuries to your head, as well as other injuries that can occur while riding. Some of the most common injuries that can be prevented by wearing a helmet are head injuries, broken bones, and lacerations.A helmet also protects you from injuries caused by the horse. The horse’s hooves can cause serious and long-lasting injuries, especially to children who do not yet have great balance. Even though a horse is not supposed to kick, it can happen. If you are not wearing a helmet, you can receive a kick to the head or neck.If you are a beginner rider, you may also want to consider purchasing a safety helmet with adjustable straps. This can help you to achieve a more secure fit on your horse.
Safety gear for the lower body
While a helmet protects your head, other safety gear can help to protect your lower body. You can purchase various types of pads and chaps that can help protect your legs from kicks and bites from the horse.You can also purchase horse blankets that can be used to wrap around your legs to protect them from bites. If you are riding in the winter or in a muddy environment, you can purchase wet-patching kits that can help to protect you from bites and cuts.
Safety gear for the upper body
If you are riding in the fall or in a muddy environment, you can purchase equestrian gloves that can help to protect your hands from bites and scratches. Some gloves can be made from synthetic materials that can help to keep you protected even when they get wet.If you are riding in the winter, you can purchase horse riding warmers that can help to keep your hands warm. You can also purchase waterproof gloves that can keep your hands dry if you are riding in rainy conditions.
Conclusion
Riding a horse can be an enjoyable and exhilarating experience. To make sure you stay injury-free, you should be prepared with the right protective gear, and know how to properly ride your horse.When you’re ready to hit the trails, follow these tips to ride safely and stay injury-free:- Always ride at a steady and safe speed.- Never ride without using a protective saddle pad.- Wear a helmet at all times.- Use protective gear for the lower body.- Use protective gear for the upper body.