Horseback riding is, no doubt, a fun-filled and entertaining activity. However, it’s not all fun when one meets with a horse riding-related accident. Given how huge and powerful horses are, a small mistake in judging them or misinterpreting their action can cause serious injuries. When it comes to horseback riding special needs, one must hire a professional instructor to learn how to ride a horse safely. If you are also considering enrolling yourself in an equine riding center, follow these basic rules to stay safe and prevent accidents.

  1. Also, choose your horse with care. You must select a horse that is compatible with your riding skills. If you are an amateur who is starting from scratch, consider choosing a horse that is quiet and well-mannered. Such horses have experience riding with unprofessional riders and know how to handle them.
  2. If you are teaching your young child how to mount on horse or balance, don’t leave them unattended. It’s essential to teach kids how to behave around horses. Encourage them to speak softly and move slowly and maintain a safe distance from the horses. Horse riding activities can be overwhelming for young kids. They can get distracted with so many things going around them. To avoid accidents and falls due to the inattentiveness of the child, teach them to be alert.
  3. The fastest and safest way to learn how to ride is by learning it from experienced horse riding instructors. There are plenty of centers for horseback riding near Virginia Beach, where one can take up a recreational horseback riding program.
  4. If you are riding an untrained horse, it won’t be a good idea to ride alone. Always ride in the supervision of a trained instructor who can tame unfamiliar horses easily.
  5. Wearing protection while riding is the best way to ensure the safety of yourself as well as your horse. Always wear sturdy, and ASTM approved helmet whenever riding a horse. You should also wear a vest that protects your torso. Wearing sturdy boots will prevent you from slipping from the horse.
  6. When you are group riding, always maintain a proper distance between horses. Doing so will prevent the horse from kicking you accidentally.
  7. If your horse becomes aggressive or agitated, get down from the horse to control the horse.

Must do-things before riding a horse

  1. Before you mount the horse, check the girth
  2. Look for the signs of wear and tear in stirrup leathers
  3. Learn how to stop the horse with one rein
  4. You should also learn how to fall safely. This will prevent you from sustaining severe injuries in times of accidents.
  5. Learning how to do an emergency dismount is another thing you must do.
  6. When riding, avoid going fast. You must practice controlled riding to prevent injuries.
  7. Even if you are an experienced rider, inform someone from your circle or family what route you are taking and how much time it will take you to cover it.
  8. Road traffic can make horses anxious. It’s always better to avoid roadside when riding a horse.