Riders of all levels need to consider riding safely. This means thinking about more than just wearing protective gear while on a horse. As a rider, you need to ask yourself the right questions to ensure you are riding safely and that you and your coach are following safety procedures.
Here we cover the top four questions riders should ask themselves before saddling up.
Top 4 questions riders should ask
Does my coach have insurance?
Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner at the sport, anything can happen while riding. One way to avoid costly mishaps is ensuring that you and your coach have the right insurance coverage that considers every scenario. NFP offers you that peace of mind. We have experts specially focused on designing the best equestrian insurance coverage to meet your needs.
With over 35 years of experience in equine insurance plans, Henry Equestrian Insurance Brokers Ltd., an NFP company, offers the right solutions to your horse and liability insurance needs.
Does my coach have Safe Sport training?
Equestrian Canada (EC) offers Safe Sport training that is focused on protecting the safety and welfare of all participants in equestrian sport. It is important that all members of the equestrian community learn EC's Abuse Policy, Athlete Protection Guidelines and Code of Conduct and Ethics. With this education, coaches learn how to recognize and report incidences of harassment and/or abuse.
If your coach is an active EC Sport License Holder, they can get free access to the Fostering Healthy Equestrian Environments and EC Concussions courses. Fostering Healthy Equestrian Environments is a program geared toward teaching equestrian coaches, trainers, officials, and sport leaders how to create and support a safe and respectful environment for all participants.
Is my coach certified?
The next question to ask yourself as a rider is whether your coach is a certified coach. According to EC, certification is a credentialing process that includes training and formal evaluation through independent assessment of coaching competencies and ongoing professional development requirements by a verified provider. The following certification programs are recognized by EC:
- National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP)
- International Group of Equestrian Qualifications
- Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association
- Certified Horsemanship Association
- Provincial Vaulting Trainer Certification
- Canadian Pony Club
Is my coach an EC licensed coach?
Finally, if you're looking to participate in EC competitions, your coach may need to be an EC licensed coach. With EC'c new Coach Status program, coaches can apply for one of two statuses:
- Registered Coach Status: This status recognizes self-declared coaches and instructors, including those working towards a Coach Certification and those new to equestrian instruction who will work alongside an experienced coach. This status can also be selected by those with formal training or extensive experience until the Licensed Coach Status becomes mandatory.
- Licensed Coach Status: This status recognizes coaches with verified expertise, either through formal certification, education or validated practical experience. Applicants should be actively engaged in equestrian instruction and coaching.
The coach status is a way to ensure that coaches meet safety standards. It is a status that indicates that coaches have the knowledge and experience to deliver equestrian activities safely and demonstrates a commitment to continuous training.
The Licensed Coach Status includes a legal expense insurance coverage. This includes unlimited access to a legal helpline. The helpline allows coaches to receive general assistance on legal questions.
For more information on the Coach Status Program visit, EC Canada's dedicated page.