1. Leave Your Hat On
When you're riding, it's critical you wear a safety helmet. Choose a type of helmet that suits your riding style. For example, there are specialty helmets designed for dressage riders; other helmets are multi-functional for casual riders, or those who perform in many equine events. If you ride for long periods of time or in hotter climates, consider an actively vented helmet to help promote air flow to keep your head cool. Passive vented helmets are suitable for all other riders. Last but not least, choose a helmet that fits you properly. It's the most important thing you can do to protect your head in case of a fall.
2. Check and Double-Check Your Saddle
You know the old saying: if you want something done right, do it yourself. You should always saddle your own horse so you know it's done properly. If you don't have experience saddling a horse, or you're just an occasional rider, ask a guide to check the cinch on the saddle before you mount. Once you've saddled the horse and ridden it for a few moments, dismount and recheck the cinch. It's not at all uncommon for the cinch to have worked its way loose and need tightening. This extra step only takes a few minutes of your time and may well save you from serious injury.
3. Know Your Limits
There are a lot of common sense things you as a rider can do to prevent injury to yourself and your horse. For starters, choose a horse that suits your ability. If you're a novice rider, you want a calm and complacent animal, not one with more spirit who requires a heavier hand to control. If you're afraid of the horse assigned to you, ask for another. Don't wear loose or floppy clothing, and don't ride with people dressed that way when you go out on the trail. If an item of clothing falls off or comes loose, it can spook the horses around it, causing you to fall. Ride at a speed you're comfortable with, one that makes sense for the area you're riding in. For instance, galloping through rough terrain is not a good idea. If you use your common sense, your trip can be a pleasurable experience for both horse and rider.
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