Without the correct equestrian gear, such as a well-fitted saddle and a good-quality bridle, horse riding can be uncomfortable for both rider and animal.
Yet researchers from Duchy College in Cornwall believe that however well kitted out some horses are, they may be at risk of suffering from health issues. Why? Because some of us are too weighty to be riding.
Analysing data on 152 horses and their adult riders located in Devon and Cornwall, the study has uncovered that only five percent of these riders were a suitable weight for their equine companions.
One of the scientists involved in the research stated that people usually do not pay attention to any weight issues a rider may have because they "tend to think that horses are such big animals they must be OK". However, she warns, "the health impact on the horse can be quite extreme, quite quickly. It seems to be a growing problem".
She believes the study shows the need for industry-wide guidelines which would stop horses from bearing the weight of riders who could cause them unintentional harm.
Carrying riders who are too heavy for them can result in the animal suffering back pain, lameness, and behavioural problems.
Hopefully something will be done about this soon, so that no more horses suffer from easily preventable health issues.
Photo © tasweertaker via Flickr, under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: back pain, behavioural problem, bridle, Duchy College, equestrian gear, equine, guidelines, health, horse, lameness, rider, saddle, weight

Do you know any horse riders who are overweight? When I was first asked this question, I racked my brains for a few minutes and couldn't think of a single one. Therefore, it seems that participating in equine activities may not only be deeply enjoyable, but could also help individuals stay in shape.
It appears the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) agrees with this theory. In order to promote the various health benefits associated with horse riding, the organisation has launched a new campaign entitled 'Trot to be Trim'.
The BEF highlights a previous study – carried out by The British Horse Society – which estimated that when someone participates in an hour long schooling session, he or she could burn 360 calories.
In addition, although horse riding may help individuals keep fit, it has been suggested that equestrianism might carry some cognitive benefits – perhaps improve an individual's mental wellbeing.
Hopefully this initiative will encourage people to pull on a pair of riding boots and jump in the saddle. If you would like to participate in equestrianism, and perhaps lose some weight in the process, you should follow the advice of the BEF and click here to visit the Hoof website.
Photo © KimManleyOrt via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: BEF, British Equestrian Federation, equine, Hoof, horse riders, riding boots, saddle, schooling, the British Horse Society, Trot to be Trim

No-one ever wants to be involved in a riding accident. Potentially, these incidents can result in life-changing injuries which may prevent individuals from completing their usual day-to-day tasks. Fortunately, these situations are relatively uncommon – possibly because quality riding hats might stop owners from being seriously harmed.

One horse rider who recently had a lucky escape was glamour model Katie Price. Reportedly, while participating in show jumping, Katie suffered a fall. Logging onto Twitter, the model stated she was feeling sore and had suffered two broken nails during the incident.

If these are the extent of her injuries, then Katie is very fortunate. Although there are no reports as to what sort of equestrian clothing she was wearing at the time, this apparel may have prevented her from suffering more serious harm.

As horse riding is one of Katie's biggest passions, I doubt this fall will keep her out of the saddle for long. Especially as she might only require treatment from a qualified manicurist.

Photo © Adrian Parnham via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: equestrian clothing, horse riding, Katie Price, qualified manicurist, riding accident, riding hats, riding injuries, saddle, show jumping, Twitter