How to protect yourself when off-roading

Ever wonder how professional riders on the circuit make death defying back flips look like it's nothing? Besides hard work and practice, what most people do not know is the technique they use to keep themselves safe. Even the most experienced riders are constantly watching out for themselves and take protective measures to keep from getting seriously injured. The techniques riders use are understanding the basics such as; the vehicle the rider is using [ie. handling and turning] and also making sure protection is worn at all times. For both the beginning and advanced riders, protective gear should always be worn, whether on the track or trail riding in the open desert. Here is a list, but not limited to, certain protective wear that should be worn when riding a dirt bike/ATV (all terrain vehicle).

1) Helmet "DOT APPROVED"
2) Long pants "preferrably riding pants for easy airflow & thickness"
3) Long shirt "jersey"
4) Chest protector "stops debri and large objects hitting the chest"
5) Boots "special dirtbike boots that keep the exhaust from melting your leg off"
6) Goggles "keeps the dirt out of your eyes"
7) Kidney Belt "protects your organ"
8) Neck padding "prevention of spinal injury"

Seems like a load to be wearing and expensive to afford, however, a one time commitment will save you from an expensive medical bill later on.

Regarding professional riders, they are promoting safety awareness and using these items during practice trial runs and events to protect themselves. Back flips and very dangerous stunts are also practiced in a "foam pit" which absorbs the shock from their fall. What may look so easy, actually is hard work. Safety comes first as well as showing the world an awesome trick few can perform.

So why is this blog dedicated to the protection of riders? Frequent accidents do happen by mishandling the vehicle, not being attentive to on-coming traffic and running into a dangerous terrain. Prevention is the key to having a good time and enjoying the outdoors because an accident would only cost you more money than purchasing protective gear from the start. The riding community is very tight knit group and when 1 person can influence another, the rest will surely follow. Make sure you check your gear every time you put it on and have a good time knowing that you are doing the right thing.