There’s nothing quite like exploring the open countryside on your horse.
Whether you’re hacking through forests, galloping across open fields or hacking through a country lane, there’s something special about doing so in the company of such a noble animal.
Whether you’re hacking through forests, galloping across open fields or hacking through a country lane, there’s something special about doing so in the company of such a noble animal.
Whilst this all sounds rather magical, horse riding – perhaps more so than any other outdoor sport – does require some safety considerations.
Consider your mount:
If you’re taking lessons at a riding school or using a trekking centre to get your horsey fix, it’s likely the instructors will choose the right horse for your riding level. For those of you lucky enough to own a horse or pony, make sure you plan your ride according to yours and your horse’s fitness and ability.
If you have a recently-backed youngster, it’s probably not a wise idea to go out exploring on your own for hours. In this case it may be best to ride in company along a well-planned route. Likewise, if your horse is unfit, it’s not worth risking a trip or fall by taking him out on a canter-filled ride instead of an appropriate fittening round-the-block walk.
All the gear….
Ok, so hi-viz isn’t the most attractive riding attire – particularly when decorated with ‘Please pass wide and slow’ – but it really is essential if you’re going to be doing some roadwork. For added visibility, consider purchasing other reflective gear for your horse, such as leg bands or tailguards. Anything that helps you stand out is worthwhile and could help motorists spot you much earlier.
It goes without saying that you should be wearing a riding hat of PAS015 standard. Some riders don’t think they need one when schooling in an arena on a safe horse, but the fact is, no animal is completely bombproof and accidents can happen. Getting hat hair is better than getting knocked unconscious or worse…
If you’re riding a young or spooky horse, it’s also worth considering wearing a body protector. This type of protection is mandatory for most cross country competitions – including British Eventing-affiliated events.
Aside from safety wear, make sure your tack is in good condition – yes, this does mean getting out the saddle soap once in a while! Watch out for any frayed stitching or cracked leatherwork. Keeping your tack soaped and oiled will help it last for years to come, so don’t underestimate the power of good cleaning.
Sparkly tack is all well and good, but it needs to fit well. Ensure your horse receives regular visits from the saddler – particularly if he’s a growing youngster or has gained/lost weight recently. Any changes in shape will affect your saddle’s fit and a poorly fitting saddle could cause pain – resulting in potentially dangerous bad behaviour. You should supplement visits from your saddler with back checks from an equine physiotherapist or sports massage professional to ensure that your horse is completely pain free and fit for purpose.
Plan your route
It’s easy to make a spur of the moment decision to go for a ride without really planning where you’re going, or telling anyone for that matter. Those of you that remember your Pony Club days will know that you should always carry a hoof pick, baler twine, some change for a payphone and remember to tell people where you’re going. Things have moved on a bit since – you’ll be carrying your mobile phone for a start – but the old saying of informing someone of your route and how long you’ll be out still stands.
For the explorers among you, it’s also wise to plan your route on a map beforehand and, better still, carry one with you on your ride – just in case you happen to get lost.
Other useful apps include Horse Rider SOS which uses GPS to track your position and alerts a designated contact if you have an accident which renders you motionless. This is particularly useful if you enjoy hacking alone in more remote locations.
Be safe on the roads
We’re not all lucky enough to be able to ride straight from the yard out into the countryside – riding along a quiet lane or busy road is essential for some riders to access bridleways.
Roadwork requires some additional skills from both horse and rider in order to stay safe. Your horse must be able to deal with cars, motorbikes, lorries and the odd plastic bag, whilst you must be aware at all times and be courteous to other road users.
If you haven’t already taken it, the BHS Riding and Road Safety test is a worthwhile exam that will equip you with the skills you need to ride safely on the road. It’s split into three parts – theory, a simulated road test and a road route – and is a rigorous way of improving riders’ road safety knowledge. You don’t even need to own a horse to take the test – many approved riding centres organise it for pupils.
As a rider you’ll know that you can’t plan for every eventuality when dealing with horses. However, it pays to be as safety conscious as possible, to ensure that you and your horse are prepared, fit and ready to tackle the great outdoors.
and last but by no means least...
Don't forget to download the PlotMyTrot app to collect SD or HD camera footage. Then, upload your videos together with GPS, Speed, Elevation, Time and Distance - Anytime, anywhere in the world.
