Safety in Horse Riding

Safety in Horse Riding –

and Why Riding Should Be Fun Again

My name is Pieter van Pletzen, founder of LearnToFall.org. Horses have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I know from personal experience: riding is something wonderful. It gives us freedom, joy, adventure – and a unique connection with an animal that is sensitive, powerful, and full of trust.

But I’ve also seen that many riders don’t always feel this lightness. Instead, insecurity, fear, or even panic take over. We focus so much on doing everything “right” that we forget why we started riding in the first place: because it should be fun.

And that is exactly where my work begins.

When Fear Takes Away the Joy of Riding

Many people carry hidden fears or blockages within them – often triggered by a fall or a negative experience. Sometimes it’s that one moment when everything suddenly felt out of control, and the memory stays deep inside the body. Even if you’re not consciously aware of it, it continues to have an effect.

The horse notices immediately. It senses when your breathing changes, when your muscles tighten, or when your body becomes restless. These small details affect not only you but also your horse’s behavior. A cycle begins: you become uncertain, the horse reacts to it, and the uncertainty grows stronger.

Why I Teach People How to Fall

I’m often asked: “Why do you teach falling?”The answer is simple: because falling is part of riding.

We are not all top athletes – and we don’t need to be. But when it happens – and it happens to everyone at some point – your reaction determines how well you handle the fall.

• Wrong reactions usually come from panic. Your body stiffens, you fall rigidly – and that’s when the worst injuries occur.

• Right reactions, however, can be trained. When your muscles have learned to automatically move into a protective position, your body can absorb the energy of the fall.

This “muscle memory” is the key. In my courses, we train step by step how your body should respond until it becomes automatic – whether you fall from a horse or trip in another situation.

By doing this, you build not only physical safety but also self-confidence. You know: “I can handle this situation.” And just having that knowledge changes the way you ride.

The Power of Fear – Energy You Can Use

Another important part of my work is dealing with fear. Many people see fear only as something negative. But fear is not your enemy. Fear is energy.

If you learn how to channel this energy, you can transform it into concentration, focus, and inner strength. Fear can help you think more clearly, react more quickly, and ride with more awareness.

It only becomes a problem when fear turns into panic. Then your breathing becomes shallow, your body stiffens, and your mind goes blank. In that state, you cannot act calmly or connect with your horse. That’s why in my courses we practice breathing techniques, body awareness, and methods to consciously transform fear into positive energy – instead of being overwhelmed by it.

Safety Brings More Joy

In the end, my goal is simple: that you enjoy being in the saddle again. Safety does not take away the fun – on the contrary. The safer you feel, the freer you are to enjoy your connection with your horse.

Imagine riding without tension. Your breathing flows calmly, your body moves freely and in harmony with your horse. Fear no longer has power over you, and you can focus again on what riding is really about: trust, lightness, and joy.

✨ At LearnToFall, it’s not about training horses – it’s about training people. I help you regain your self-confidence, overcome your fears, and rediscover the joy of riding.