Reevaluating the Norm of Getting Back on After a Fall

In equestrian culture, we frequently cling to outdated beliefs that prioritize human ego over the well-being of horses. One pervasive myth is that a rider must remount immediately after a fall. This advice, often delivered with unwarranted authority, disregards essential factors such as safety, the emotional states of both horse and rider, and the spiritual connection we aspire to nurture with our equine partners. At its core, this belief embodies an ego-driven mentality, where the fear of embarrassment and the desire to assert dominance overshadow the mutual respect and partnership crucial for a healthy, harmonious relationship with horses.
Horses Are Not Vindictive Beings
The myth perpetuates the notion that horses have a vindictive nature—that they plot and instigate resistance intentionally. This notion is fundamentally flawed; horses lack the cognitive ability to engage in such plotting. They exist in the moment, responding instinctively and emotionally to their surroundings. By recognizing this truth, we can create a supportive environment that relieves unnecessary pressure and fosters positive interactions.
The Fall: More Than Just a Physical Mishap
When a rider falls, the instinct may be to remount immediately, driven not only by the belief that not doing so signifies weakness or allows the horse an "unwarranted victory," but also by external pressures such as peer expectations, competition dynamics, or directives from instructors. This reaction disregards the psychological and physiological impacts of the incident on both the rider and the horse.
Understanding Shock: The Body’s Response to Trauma
Both horses and riders experience shock after a fall, complicating the decision to return to riding right away. Shock manifests both physically and emotionally:

• Physical Shock: Symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, and increased blood pressure. Severe cases can lead to unconsciousness or confusion, particularly if injuries like concussions or fractures are present.
• Emotional Shock: Riders may experience disorientation, fear, or confusion that clouds their judgment about their own and their horse’s well-being. Similarly, horses can exhibit heightened anxiety, fearfulness, or an inability to focus, leading to further distress.

For the horse, a rider falling can trigger instinctual responses inherent to prey animals. The sudden loss of weight and associated commotion create confusion, potentially resulting in behaviors that endanger both the rider and observers, such as:

• Spooking: Startling at unfamiliar sights or sounds and bolting in fear.
• Shying: Nervously sidestepping or reacting to objects that seem threatening.
• Rearing: In extreme situations, a horse may rear up as a defensive action, which can be dangerous.

It is crucial to recognize these behaviors as instinctual responses to the situation rather than misbehavior. Rather than anthropomorphizing the horse and attributing psychological motives to their actions, we must view these behaviors through the lens of their fight-or-flight instinct. In moments of danger, a horse may choose to flee, freeze, or act defensively. It’s important to avoid disciplinary measures in these situations, as punishment can exacerbate fear and anxiety, damaging trust between horse and rider. Acknowledging these natural responses underscores the importance of maintaining calm and allowing both horse and rider the time they need to process the incident before moving forward.
The Importance of Not Getting Back On
Choosing not to immediately remount after a fall is an act of wisdom that prioritizes the horse's well-being over societal expectations or personal embarrassment. Here’s why this choice is vital:

• Prioritizing Safety: The instinct to jump back on can overshadow instinctual judgments regarding safety. Allowing time for both horse and rider to recuperate minimizes the risk of further incidents, emphasizing that personal pride should never take precedence over their mutual welfare.
• Nurturing Emotional Recovery: Time and space after a fall allow both horse and rider to process the experience. Riders can reflect on what happened and regain composure, while horses can calm and rebuild confidence. This recovery time is fundamental to fostering trust and ensuring a successful partnership moving forward.
• Setting a Positive Example: Not returning to the saddle immediately reinforces an important lesson—that mental and emotional health must be prioritized. This thoughtful approach to riding builds a sustainable foundation for future interactions.

In conclusion, the decision to remount immediately can lead to further trauma for both and reinforce negative associations with the experience.
Encouraging Emotional Recovery Over Conformity
Honoring our bond with horses requires an acknowledgment of their needs during distressing moments. Allowing both horse and rider time to recover from shock nurtures trust, dismantling the stigma surrounding responses to falls. This approach deepens the emotional and spiritual connections, paving the way for a better understanding of one another.
Practical, Evidence-Based Approaches
Instead of rushing back into the saddle, consider these strategies that prioritize the emotional and physical needs of both horse and rider:

• Post-Fall Evaluation: Conduct a thorough assessment of both parties. For the rider, monitor for injuries and cognitive clarity. For the horse, check the tack for places that might be improperly adjusted or rubbing, especially saddle pads and girths, and look for signs of distress or behavioral changes. Run your hands over them to see if they have hypertonic muscles or heat or swelling in any of their joints.
• Seek Professional Help: If uncertainties linger, consult with a qualified equine professional—such as a veterinarian, equine dentist, or bodyworker—who can offer insights into both parties' behaviors and provide tailored guidance.
• Engage in Groundwork: Both horse and rider can greatly benefit from engaging in groundwork as a constructive transition. This approach provides an opportunity to rebuild confidence and strengthen their bond without the immediate pressure of riding. It's important to emphasize that the groundwork should focus on calming and suppling exercises—practices that promote relaxation and understanding—rather than methods aimed at reprimanding the horse or correcting behavior in a punitive manner.

The Spiritual Perspective: Reverence and Humility
Beyond practical considerations, we must embrace the spiritual significance of our relationships with horses. When we honor these beings as equals and teachers, we shift our perceptions from viewing them as mere tools to understanding them as invaluable partners.

• Embracing Horses as Teachers: Each fall can impart lessons—whether about balance, emotional awareness, or confronting fears. Viewing the experience not as a setback but as a learning opportunity strengthens the bond between horse and rider.
• Approaching Solutions with Humility: Humility is foundational in fostering a respectful relationship with horses. By recognizing that we share our lives with beings possessing their own needs and experiences, we cultivate a deeper understanding. Patience and reverence offer a pathway to mutual growth after a fall.

Conclusion: A Transformative Approach to Riding
The belief that riders must get back on immediately after a fall is rooted in fear and misunderstanding. Addressing the emotional and physical needs of both horse and rider calls for a compassionate approach—one that prioritizes safety, respect, and spiritual growth.
By challenging these conventional notions, we honor the intelligence and spirit of horses while embracing the valuable lessons they provide. Let us advocate for practices that celebrate our partnership with these magnificent creatures, empowering both rider and horse to become true teachers and healers in each other’s lives.
As we move toward a more compassionate and ethical equestrian future, it is our responsibility—as riders and caregivers—to reshape our approach, nurture mutual respect, and advocate for the welfare of our equine companions. Together, as equals, we can create a space where horses and humans thrive.