Inside the Saddle - What Makes Horse Riding Safer Than You Think

When you first consider horseback riding, it’s natural to wonder: Is horse riding dangerous? It’s a reasonable question, and not one to dismiss. After all, horses can weigh over a thousand pounds, bolt unexpectedly, or spook if startled. A fall from even a slow trot can lead to serious injury, and studies show horseback riding sports lead to more traumatic brain injuries than football or rugby.

But here’s the catch: danger is only part of the story. At Jelich Farms, we focus on the other side of that equation: education, preparedness, and shared respect between rider and horse. Let’s explore what makes riding safer, and why understanding safety deeply can make horseback riding one of the most empowering experiences you can choose.

The Real Risks to Horseback Riding

Horse riding does carry inherent risks, studies suggest it may pose higher injury risks than even motorcycling or skiing, especially for novice riders Most injuries occur from falls (60–80%), or from kicks and being stepped on when handling a horse on the ground In fact, equestrian-related injuries account for tens of thousands of emergency visits annually in the U.S.

Yet when the right knowledge, training, and gear come together, much of that risk becomes manageable. Real safety begins with understanding why accidents happen and how to prevent them.

Safety Through Education at Jelich Farms

At Jelich Farms, safety is woven into every lesson. We teach you more than how to ride. We teach you how horses think, how to read their behavior, and how to respond calmly when they act up.

We emphasize avoiding common beginner mistakes, like gripping reins too tightly or gazing at your horse rather than ahead, because these habits can startle a horse or unbalance you. Our instructors give hands-on guidance so you learn safe posture, effective cues, and how to respond if your horse spooks or stumbles.

The Importance of the Right Gear

A properly fitted equestrian helmet certified to ASTM or PAS standards drastically reduces the chance of a serious head injury. Riders who fall with helmets face significantly lower risk of traumatic brain injury than those who don’t wear them. That’s why at Jelich Farms, we require helmets every time, and help families select and fit them correctly.

We also teach how to check a helmet before riding and when to replace it (after impact or every three to five years). This small step alone can make a big difference in safety.

Building Safety, One Ride at a Time

Safety isn’t achieved in a single lesson. It’s built over time as you develop confidence, coordination, and connection. Novice riders typically face the highest risk, but after about 100 hours of practice, injuries drop by more than half. That’s why consistency matters. Our structured riding and horsemanship programs help you log those hours meaningfully, with expert support at every step.

Conclusion

So, is horse riding dangerous? Yes, it carries risk. But risk doesn’t mean danger when you know how to manage it. At Jelich Farms, your safety is our priority: from careful horsemanship to proper gear to experienced instruction. If you’re thoughtful, trained, and equipped, horseback riding can be not just safe, but one of the most rewarding and confidence-building activities you’ll ever try.

Let us help you learn with assurance. Get in touch to learn more.