Sunday, March 30, 2014

Getting Prepared For Polo

By Rob Edwards


Budding horse riders have the option to take part in a number of different riding sports, ranging from the skilful and beautiful dressage, brave show jumping and the daring cross country. One other popular sport is Polo, which is enjoyed by riders up and down the country. Polo consists of four players, each designated a certain position and role within the team. The game takes place on a pitch and each rider is given a polo mallet to hold, which they use to try and hit the ball into the appropriate goal.

In order to take part in Polo, it is important that the horse rider wears the right safety gear so as to protect themselves from the risks involved in the game. Flying balls, swinging mallets and of course, falling off your horse are all common occurrences in Polo. The most important piece of safety equipment that must be worn is undoubtedly a helmet. A Polo helmet is designed specifically for the game and has different advanced safety features to a standard riding helmet. It is not uncommon for Polo helmets to have a metal faceguard that protects the riders face from stray balls or mallets.

Specialist riding boots also need to be worn; usually coming up to just under the knee, with a flat sole and small hell, Polo boots are designed to prevent the player's foot from slipping through the stirrups and losing control of the horse. It is essential to be in control of the horse due to Polo being played at such a fast speed and losing control could have very dangerous costs.

Of course, in addition to the rider, there is also a lot of need for Polo equipment for the horse. As well as a bridle and saddle, horses often need to wear special shock absorbing skid boots to protect them whilst galloping around a Polo pitch. A good bridle is also very important in order for the rider to be able to keep accurate control of the horse; total control is crucial as the rider will often have to instruct the horse to change direction very quickly.

In addition to this safety equipment, making sure a horse is also of paramount importance. This means that riders must ensure that their horse has healthy joints as considerable pressure is put upon them whilst taking part in a sport such as Polo. Designed by vets. Using high grade pharmaceutical ingredients, supplements such as NAF Superflex help to prevent horses from gaining injuries and pain, and make sure their joints are healthy and supple. Most supplements such as NAF Superflex are mixed into a horse's food.




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