9 Tips for Avoiding Injuries on Horseback

As with every sport, horseback riding carries injury risk. But unlike most sports, you’ll be working with an animal weighing 1,000 or more pounds.

That introduces an element of uncertainty and unpredictability that can result in falls and significant injuries. The possibilities include concussions, traumatic brain injuries, fractures, sprains/strains and lower back pain. You need to take precautions to keep yourself safe and reduce the risk of serious injury.

Here are ways you can protect yourself.

1. Wear a helmet. A proper safety helmet is important for protecting your head. And remember that if you are involved in a fall that impacts or damages your helmet, it’s time to throw it away and get a new one. They are not designed to absorb multiple impacts.
2. Wear a riding vest. Vests are about more than fashion. A properly fitting riding vest is critical for avoiding core injuries, including broken ribs. Older style vests feature protective padding, while newer designs have airbag-style inserts that inflate upon impact.
3. Know your skill level. As with many sports, if you try to get ahead of your current ability levels, you can get in trouble. For example, be certain that you are ready for certain maneuvers or jumps before attempting them. Trouble can also arise when novice riders attempt to ride less experienced or younger horses.
4. Read your horse. Strive to understand your horse’s body language. Judging its demeanor involves watching the horse’s head. A horse’s ears, in particular, can tell you how the horse is reacting to its surroundings, including people and other animals. When the horse’s ears are pinned back, this could indicate anger or a perceived threat. A sick, sleeping or sedated horse may hold its ears to the sides.
5. Consider breakaway stirrups. These are more common with youth organizations. They prevent you from being dragged by your horse in instances where you have fallen but still have a leg stuck in a stirrup.
6. Wear riding boots. Novice riders or people who are just dropping by the stable for a “quick ride” may try to get by with tennis shoes or some other form of nonprotective footwear. This can cause serious trouble if you get stepped on by your horse. And without proper riding boots, you may be more likely to get your foot stuck in a stirrup. This is important even if you are just walking around the stables. Your feet are vulnerable to injury while leading, tacking or feeding your horse. Without proper footwear, you are one misstep away from a foot injury.
7. Have proper interactions with your horse. You can’t let your horse misbehave in the barn or elsewhere. Your interactions with the horse should be disciplined. For example, your horse should hold still while you put on its halter. Also remember that when you walk behind a horse, you are in its blind spot – a dangerous place to be if it gets startled. If you are walking behind a horse, put your hand on its rump. That lets the horse know you are there, while also reducing the chances of being seriously injured if it kicks (being closer reduces the momentum of its legs).
8. Work on your own stability. You will have a better riding experience if your body is prepared for the demands. Focus on exercises that strengthen your core and lower body. This includes abdominal work, squats and lunges.
9. Seek expert guidance. If you are just getting started, spend some time taking riding lessons and learning from experienced riders. They will help build your fundamentals and boost your confidence when forming a partnership with your horse.

This content is not AI generated.