Return Trainer
Return-to-play / return-to-ride principles
This teaches principles only. It does not clear anyone to return.
No same-day return after suspected concussion. "If in doubt, sit them out."
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Polo / Equestrian
Principles that should guide every decision
- No same-day return after suspected concussion.
- Riding has extra risk — a fall from height can be catastrophic.
- Initial assessment by an appropriate healthcare professional onsite or via NHS 111 should occur within 24 hours.
- Follow the current HPA Concussion Protocol and HPA rules in addition to the UK GRAS pathway; HPA requirements override generic training examples.
- Under the current HPA protocol, qualified/non-medical trained assessors use CRT6 to complete the HPA HIA; appropriately trained medical staff use SCAT6 in accordance with HPA requirements.
- The player's club must report suspected concussion to the HPA within 24 hours.
- The HPA published default competitive stand-down is 21 days (day of incident = day 0) for concussion/suspected concussion, subject to any current HPA specialist/high-goal pathway.
- A responsible adult should supervise during the first 24 hours and monitor for deterioration.
Decision examples
Polo player feels better after 30 minutes. Can they return?
Cyclist feels dizzy but wants to ride back to the car.
Rugby player passed memory questions but has new loss of balance after the tackle.
Child hit head, parent says they are "just tired".
Return decisions belong to the relevant sport rules, medical professional guidance, club policy and clinical governance pathway.