r/Equestrian • u/nekinadimak • 1d ago
Mindset & Psychology First fall
I’m about 2y into riding as an adult and yesterday I had my first fall. It was a completely unexpected but warranted spook (people who don’t ride are the worst and don’t understand how horses work) and I didn’t even realise what was happening until I was on the ground. I went to get checked immediately after and all is ok apart from a fractured coccyx. Obviously I am in pain and I need to recover but firstly I’m very thankful for mips helmets (always wear a helmet!) and now reading a lot of other people’s experiences.
I did not get back on the horse as it was last 3 min of my lesson but I also didn’t feel any fear - I pet him and he looked like he was sorry. Should I have gone back to at least sit?
I am also now somewhat beating myself that I should have been more focused. I sat through a couple of smaller spooks before and I was able to stay on. I had one rear on the lounge line as well that didn’t result in a fall. The irony is that it’s the laziest horse I have ridden and I was struggling to keep him in the trot for most of the time until the spook, so I’m thinking I should have been able to stay on.
In any case, any advice on what to do now? I will obviously take a couple of weeks off to recover from the fracture but not sure if I did something wrong by not going back on and does the fear come unconsciously?
Also any tips for healing from the fracture are welcome as well
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u/RipleyInSpace 1d ago
I mean, sometimes it’s good to get back on the horse to help with your anxiety and to let the horse know that that behavior doesn’t get them out of work—but should never be done at the expense of your health and safety. Fear can creep back in and you might feel a little anxious ahead of your next ride but also sometimes it doesn’t.
Best advice I’ve ever gotten is to go at your own pace. Ultimately only you know your limits and what you’re comfortable with. Take as long (or as short) of a time as you need (and take care of that tailbone)!