No doubt about it – in the event of a fall, the helmet WILL minimize damage. But wouldn’t it be better not to fall in the first place? At every horse show impetuous riders climb aboard fresh, distracted or green horses – prey animals in a busy, unfamiliar environment…yet, these riders are wearing their helmets. I guess the best overall solution would be to ride it as if you had no helmet… and then wear one.
Ever wonder why, in acres of pasture, horses choose the same well-worn path?
A predictable environment for a prey animal is a safe environment. Horses thrive on a predictable training system and feeding schedule. No surprises.
I was 13 when I entered my first horse show. The judge advised me that the yellow macramé browband I’d crafted for my gelding’s bridle was not customary horse show attire. In 25 years as a professional riding coach and horse trainer, I’ve worked with 100s of horses and coached even more riders. What I’ve learned from horses and their people! What I’ve learned about myself in the fishbowl of the show ring! Horse shows have enriched the lives of so many – and been the catalyst for the train wreck of others.