They say that one isn't a real rider until he can't count the number of times he's fallen off. This doesn't mean, however, that a horseback riding accident isn't a traumatic event; in fact, some riders never return to the sport because they've lost their "equestrian courage".
There are numerous ways in which a horseback riding accident can occur, though the odds increase with the difficulty of the sport. For example, more riders fall off in cross-country jumping than in equitation classes. It is important to realize, however, that a rider can fall off a horse any time, and no conditions are impervious to injuries.
Don't Overanalyze
It is easy to go over and over a horseback riding accident in one's mind, trying to figure out the precise course of events that might have prevented it. This is counterproductive and is likely to impede one's recovery. Instead, move on from the accident and try to learn from the mistake.
It is better to relive a horseback riding accident just once. Remember the events that led up to falling off a horse, then try to imagine what precipitated it. Perhaps it would have been a better idea to drop the stirrups or halt the horse. Know what led to the accident, but don't rehash it again and again.
Find a Different Horse
It is easier to recover from a horseback riding accident if the rider finds a different horse to work until equestrian courage is returned. Find a horse that is considered "bomb proof" and unlikely to spook, run away, refuse a fence, spin too fast or participate in any behavior that is dangerous to the rider.
It is also a good idea to take a lesson or two after a horseback riding accident. After falling off a horse, a rider needs the guidance and reassurance that a riding instructor can provide. He or she can also deliver tips for avoiding similar accidents in the future.
Create a Safety Net
Large open spaces are likely to be scary after falling off a horse, so limit the space when trying to recover from a horseback riding accident. It is often easier to get back on in a round pen or a small indoor arena than in a pasture with unlimited area. The protection is largely psychological, but nonetheless effective.
Riders might also be more comfortable when working on a lunge line after taking a fall. Giving someone else control over the horse and the situation makes it easier to face the fear and move on.
Make Split-Second Decisions
The mind is a rider's worst enemy when trying to recover from a horseback riding accident. He shouldn't give himself time to think about what could go wrong or how he could be injured by falling off a horse. Rather than planning a ride for days, make a split-second decision to get on, then go with it.
The same goes for trying the activity that led to the fall in the first place. For example, if the rider fell off while jumping, he can make a split-second decision to go jump a fence while just riding in an arena. This minimizes the build-up of adrenaline and the rider will feel better once he's accomplished the task.
It isn't easy to recover from a horseback riding accident, but it can be done. A rider simply must possess the willpower and the passion to conquer his fear and regain equestrian courage.
Laura Thompson - Laura Thompson is a horseback riding instructor and freelance writer living in Houston, Texas. She is proud to be the feature writer for ...
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