Falling off can prove a scary experience for horse riders and our confidence can be easily be affected. Whether riders sustain injuries or simply suffer a serious shock it is common to struggle mentally after an accident. In our latest blog Scientific Nutritional Products takes a look at ‘fighting the fear’ and recovering confidence after a horse riding fall.
If you experience a riding fall it is important to give yourself time to recover physically and process the shock. The old-fashioned approach of getting straight back on the horse can put you at risk of further injury.
For many riders it can be helpful to reflect as to why the fall may have happened and allow them to see if there are factors such as riding environment, pain related behaviour from the horse or an instructor pushing us too far out of our comfort zone.
If you think the fall may have occurred due to the riding environment it can be possible to avoid the setting again but often this strategy isn’t plausible.
Working with an instructor can help you regain confidence in the environment whether it is in the sand school or out hacking. For many riders it really helps to feel supported and it can automatically feel safer to have someone by your side, especially if they are able to offer practical training to get back on track. Rebuilding confidence via riding a different horse, particularly an experienced horse such as a school master, could also offer a way to help you regain your assurance in the saddle. f you think your horse or pony may have been in pain producing unwanted behaviour such as bucking, rearing or bolting it is wise to get your horse assessed by an equine therapist such as a physiotherapist, massage therapist or osteopath. If you have major concerns you should consult your veterinarian. Checking that the tack is fitting correctly is also very important.
If you still feel stuck after taking these measures it can be helpful to work on mindfulness techniques; whether it be with a coach or via online tutorials. Breathing work is really important with this approach and ensuring you are breathing properly helps you stay focused and relaxed when riding.
Scientific Nutritional Products produce a range of equine and canine supplements including supplements for joint and hoof health, comprehensive vitamin and mineral packages, digestive supplements for gut health and more. For more information on the range available, please visit our website at www.horsesupplementsdirect.com or contact a member of the team on FREEPHONE 0800 032 7774.
