by Chrissie Mayes

Created on: November 10, 2010

Riding a horse anywhere is a potentially dangerous sport that can be made safer by following a few tips.  Riding in an enclosed arena is generally considered to be safer than riding on the road but following a few safety measures will help ensure that the risk to all users is kept at a minimum.

Personal safety should always be considered first.  Wear a properly approved riding helmet to prevent injury to the head is you fall off.  The surface in an arena may be softer than a tarmac road but it is common to land underneath the horse and risk being caught by a hoof on the head.  The same rule applies to the wearing of body protectors, particularly when jumping in an arena.  If a horse stops suddenly, causing you to fall off over its’ head, it is common to land on the jump wing.  A body protector can soften the blow considerably.

Wear riding boots with a heel that stops the foot from sliding through the stirrup.  If your foot becomes lodged in the stirrup and you fall off, you risk being dragged on the floor with your leg caught which can result in broken limbs.  Not everyone likes riding in gloves but they prevent friction burns and blisters if your horse pulls or is strong and give good grip on leather reins.  Ensure your coat is zipped to prevent it flapping and possibly scaring your horse if he catches sight of it; the same applies to the rest of your clothing.  Remove any jewellery as it is at risk of becoming caught in clothes, equipment or tack.

Check your horse‘s equipment for safety and comfort.  His tack should fit well and not pinch, as this can cause bad behaviour such as bucking, rearing or bolting out of pain.  The leather should not be worn; otherwise you risk it breaking with potential dire consequences.  Groom your horse before tacking up to ensure the leather does not rub on dirt and cause discomfort, and check his girth is securely tightened to avoid the saddle slipping. 

If your horse is fresh when entering the arena walk him around away from other users until he is calm enough to work without misbehaving.  Give him time to adjust to his surroundings, and ride him firmly and with confidence.  If you are tentative and nervous with him he will feel it and react accordingly.  If the weather is particularly bad, be on alert.  Even though you may be in a covered arena and out of the perils of the rain and wind, your horse may still react to the

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