Thrills
A lovely rider and horse fell whilst out with the Cottesmore Hunt at John O’Gaunt
Prep comes before a fall By George Gorman, inventor of the RS-tor rider safety aid
Savvy riders know that falling is part and parcel of the sport – but you can reduce the risk factors for falling, in addition to lessening the risk of injury should a fall occur; here’s how -
1.Develop your seat No matter what your level of expertise, in order to help prevent a fall, it is important to remain balanced, and with an independent seat. Riders with an independent seat can move each body part independently; so, for example, their hands are not dependant on the reins for balance, and their feet are not dependent on the stirrup irons to maintain equilibrium. Ask your instructor for lunge lessons to help improve your balance.
2. Use a body protector Sometimes, a fall is unavoidable – so consider the risks first, and be prepared. For example, if you are riding cross country, choose a body protector with the European safety standard EN 13158:2009. Body protectors are assessed for impact as levels one, two and three, with level three being suitable for cross country riding. (Body protectors are a requirement in eventing, but are optional in disciplines including show jumping, horse driving trials, showing, endurance, polo and dressage.)
3. Don’t be afraid to fall Mentally preparing for a fall can help reduce the risk factors for injury. A fall from a horse at a slow pace indicates an impact speed of around 12.5 miles per hour. However, when travelling at a fast canter, possible impact speeds reach 40 miles per hour – meaning significant potential for injury.
If you are falling: • Try to relax - rigid muscles are injured more easily.
• Try not to put an arm out to break a fall.
• If you are in an open area, try to roll when you land, creating a ‘spin’ action away from the horse.
• If you are surrounded by fast-moving horses, make your body shape as small and tight as possible as you land.
• Only keep hold of your reins if it is safe to do so, and if you are ‘in control’ of the fall.
4.Develop confidence Traditionally, riders have been trained to hold onto the mane when developing jumping skills, but of course, the mane isn’t a moveable object, and many horses are hogged. An alternative is the RS-Tor security aid. This innovative product comes into its own when either horse or rider are being trained to jump, as it helps develop rider confidence and balance, and also helps prevent a reliance on the reins when jumping. The RS-tor can also prevent the horse being jabbed in the mouth during the training process, for example during a ‘spook’, or if the horse jumps extravagantly.
The RS-tor comprises a light, webbing strap that attaches to the saddle and includes an elasticated element that absorbs movement. The rider holds the end of the RS- tor, which is shaped like a riding crop handle. Visit:
www.rstor.co.uk or call: 01752 338000 for info – the RS-tor is priced £39.95. Sizes Childs, S and M/L. (Adult riders over 5ft usually choose M/L.)
www.equestrianlifemagazine.co.uk
17
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SPILLS
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