Horse riding can be a thrilling experience for riders of all skill levels. Riding is also a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks and dangers involved with this outdoor activity. It’s important to prepare ahead of time and know what to expect when horseback riding so you don’t encounter any unexpected problems while on the trail.The most common horse riding-related injuries are saddle sores, bruises and sprains from falls, and general strain from leaning forward to control the animal. Whether you’re an occasional rider or someone who enjoys trail rides regularly, there are a few things you can do to avoid these problems while horseback riding:
Wear the proper protective clothing and equipment
Your protective riding gear will help prevent injuries and reduce the risk of secondary injuries like bruising and sprains. Depending on the climate and your environment, you may also want to consider waterproof riding clothing and a rain jacket. You’ll want to protect your skin from bites and stings from insects and weeds that might be present on the trail. It’s also a good idea to wear protective footwear, even if you’re riding on hard-packed dirt instead of a trail.Riding helmets are another important piece of protective equipment to have on hand while horseback riding. They can help reduce the risk of head injuries from falls, as well as a concussion if you get thrown from the horse and hit your head on the ground. You might also want to consider a face shield for eye protection.
Don’t forget about your feet
Don’t forget about your feet! If you have aching feet after a long day on the trail, you may want to consider getting inserts for your riding boots or even switching to sandals. Feet that get wet and stay wet can become irritated and swollen, and you may end up with a blister if the irritation isn’t relieved quickly.You might also want to consider getting some foot warmers to keep your feet warm during colder weather. The warmth will help prevent them from getting frostbite if you’re in a place where there’s frost for an extended period of time. If you ride in sand or are on hard-packed earth, your feet may get a little chilly, but you can easily remedy this by wearing thicker socks or even a pair of booties.
Don’t lean too far forward
When controlling the horse, it’s important to stay back and lean toward the horse. This will help keep you out of harm’s way if the horse should stumble or lose its footing. Leaning too far forward and putting pressure on your arms and shoulders can cause strain and injuries.It’s a good idea to use a padded break-away saddle pad if you’re riding in a padded saddle. These pads can decrease the amount of pressure you put on your horse’s back and sides, especially on your legs. They can also help to distribute weight more evenly and decrease the amount of pressure on your legs and hips.
Conclusion
Horse riding can be a fun and exciting way to get outside and enjoy nature, but it’s important to be prepared for potential problems and risks associated with this outdoor activity. Make sure you wear the proper protective clothing and equipment, don’t forget about your feet, and don’t lean too far forward when controlling the horse. If you do these things and prepare properly, you can reduce your risk of injury and enjoy a safe and enjoyable trail ride.