Identifying the causative factors and taking preventative measures is crucial in the prevention of injury in horseback riding. Retrospective studies conducted by Silver and Lloyd Parry (1991) showed high incidences of spinal and head injuries sustained from accidents in horseback riding. Horse and rider contributions to accidents were analysed and concluded that the majority of these accidents were preventable.
Different forms of riding are more dangerous than others with speed, jumping and unfamiliar terrain having a higher risk to injury from accidents. Furthermore, since movements in horseback riding are instigated by the rider and its outcome based on the perception of the horse, a good understanding of animal behaviour and its character would result in better reciprocation between both horse and rider. Riding lessons under the guidance of an instructor would require the said to possess good communicative coaching skills pertaining to human and equine behaviour as well as biomechanical and functional kinaesthetic knowledge. Furthermore, the specific needs, wants and capability of the rider should be matched to the qualities of the horse and the qualifications and experience of the instructor.
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