Horse jumping is a thrilling equestrian sport that involves an individual rider jumping over fences at full speed. Inexperienced jumpers may feel apprehensive about taking part in this challenging activity – but with the right preparation and training it can be a safe and exhilarating way for you to get out in the open and enjoy the fresh air while challenging yourself at the same time. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just curious about this thrilling sport, read on for some advice about horse jumping and how to prepare before your first jump event!
What are the risks associated with horse jumping?
The risk of injury while horse jumping is higher than in other equestrian disciplines, and is estimated to be between 5 and 10 injuries per 1,000 participants. The main risks associated with horse jumping include:- Falls – Falls are the most common cause of horse jumping injuries and account for around 50% of injuries sustained during this sport.- Collisions – Accidents involving other riders can also happen, especially when riders are not in line.- Fences – Some fences are designed to be tricky and may require careful approach and landing to reduce the risk of a fall.- Falls from fences – When landing from a jump, you may lose all control over your horse, leading to a fall and possible injury.- Other hazards – As with most sports, horse jumping poses risks of injury from other hazards such as weather and terrain conditions.
How to prepare for a horse jumping event
If you’re new to horse jumping, it’s a good idea to start with a training course. This will help you get used to the feel of the horse and the equipment (fences) used in this sport. This will help you feel more comfortable in the ring on the day of your first event and reduce the risk of injury. If you can, practise in your own ring so that you know exactly what to expect and can use your equipment as you would during a competition. This will also help you become familiar with the ring and its other features, such as the water jump, which might be used to improve the footing for the horse.If you’re already experienced in horse jumping, you may not need to do much preparation before your first event. However, it’s a good idea to make sure that your horse is in good shape and has been properly prepared for the event. This means that the horse has been fed and watered properly before the event and has been rested enough to be fit to jump. You should also make sure that your horse has had enough time to get used to the ring and the jumps.
Jump safely and correctly
When jumping, you should always be extra careful to make sure that you land in the centre of the horse’s hooves. This will help reduce the risk of injury to the animal and yourself. When jumping, you should also try to keep your hands as low as possible on the reins to limit the amount of pressure put on the horse’s back. The risk of injury to the rider is increased if the hands are placed too high on the reins.When jumping, make sure that you are properly dressed for the conditions. This means wearing suitable protective equipment, such as a helmet and protective clothing, to reduce the risk of injury. It’s also a good idea to wear boots, especially if you’re jumping at an indoor event where the ground may be muddy.
Try not to get too stressed out
It’s normal to feel a bit stressed out when participating in a competitive event. However, this can have a negative impact on your jumping performance, as well as your horse’s. Try to stay calm and remember that the outcome of the event is not important in the long run. Instead, focus on doing your best and enjoying the experience! If you feel like you’re about to panic, try to take a few deep breaths and focus on staying calm and relaxed.
Final thoughts
Horse jumping can be a thrilling way to get out in the fresh air, challenge yourself and have fun. However, it’s important to remember that this sport poses risks of injury, especially when jumping at high altitudes. If you’re not used to horse jumping, it’s a good idea to start with a training course before taking part in your first event. To reduce the risk of injury, you should always jump at a safe speed and only jump over fences that you’re confident you can clear.