by Rebecca K.

Created on: February 10, 2010   Last Updated: February 12, 2010

Okay, so it was bound to happen. You knew your horse was balkish, but you entered her in the 2'6" class instead of your usual 2'3" fences. Your horse skidded to a stop and you hit your head on the standard giving you a concussion. A situation like this or worse may cause you not only physical trauma, but mental as well.  Horseback riding is a rather hazardous sport and while we are brave in the saddle- perhaps too brave at times- our confidence can be very badly shaken.

It doesn't even take a serious accident for a rider to lose their nerve. Trouble is, once you lose it, just about any horse will know it. Your greenie will become more spooky if they sense you're nervous. Your usual horse who bucked you off will know she has the upper-hand because you're afraid to use the crop on her in-case she bucks you off again. No one can blame you for being apprehensive, after all meeting the ground prematurely is never a pleasant experience. Don't be dejected however, there are things you can do to help yourself become the rider you once were.

First, try not to dwell in the past. If the horse just made an honest mistake or stumbled- don't hold it against him, he didn't mean it. On the other hand, if the horse was vindictive and bucked you off or you were injured in a refusal, you might want to have a trainer get on or a more experienced rider to iron out the kinks. If the horse's dangerous behavior continues, you could consider selling him because there are a lot of horses out there, and you don't need to put up with a dishonest one. Riding is supposed to be fun!

Second, take it slow. Whatever you were doing at the time of your accident, go back a few steps or maybe start at the beginning. For instance, if you fell off jumping, start back with only flatwork and then crossrails and then small fences until you are back where you were. Don't be in a hurry to rush ahead if you are feeling apprehensive. Building your confidence can take time and that's okay.

Third, use positive visualizations. When you ride imagine the horse sailing effortlessly over the jump or having a nice peaceful trail ride. Before you get on you can try meditation or other relaxation techniques. If you feel yourself getting nervous again in the saddle, slow down and take some long, slow breaths and you will feel calmer.

Fourth, getting back to the horse issue. You may want to ride a calmer or older horse for awhile until you are feeling more confident. Getting on your three year old after she threw you into a coral fence right away might not be the best idea. She will sense if you are nervous and will quickly take the upperhand, making your situation even worse. Ride a quiet, trusty horse and get into the habit of positivity. Remember why you liked riding in the first place.

So, even though riding is a dangerous activity and one may be seriously injured, the scars will heal over time. The mental ones may surprise you and last longer than the actual physical ones, but if you keep in mind the ideas I mentioned before like: taking it slow, using positive thinking and such, you will be well on your way. Good luck.

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