The best way to get on a horse is by using a mounting block or step, standing on the left side, holding the reins, placing your left foot in the stirrup, swinging your right leg over the horse’s back, and sitting down gently. This guide will give you simple steps for learning to mount a horse safely and correctly.
Preparing for Mounting: Horse Riding Preparation Basics
Before you even think about getting on, good horse riding preparation is key. A safe ride starts on the ground. You need to make sure the horse is ready and that you are too. This setup prevents falls and keeps everyone calm.
Checking Your Gear
Always check the tack before you approach the horse to mount. Loose tack is dangerous.
- Saddle Check: Feel the girth (the strap under the horse’s belly). It should be snug. You should be able to fit two fingers between the girth and the horse, but no more. A loose girth can slip when you put weight on it.
- Bridle Check: Make sure the bit is correctly positioned in the horse’s mouth. The reins should be easy to hold.
- Your Attire: Wear boots with a heel. This stops your foot from slipping all the way through the stirrup. Closed-toe shoes are a must.
Positioning the Horse
For mounting, the horse must stand still. Ask someone to hold the horse if you are new. This helps keep the horse steady.
- Ask the horse to stand squarely. Both back legs should be under the horse’s body.
- The horse should stand quietly. A moving horse makes mounting hard.
Where to Stand: The Near Side
Horses are usually mounted from the left side. This side is called the “near side.” Always approach the horse from the left shoulder area to mount.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting a Horse
Getting on requires a smooth motion. We will look at several mounting a horse techniques. Pick the one that feels best for you and the horse.
Method 1: Using a Mounting Block (The Easiest Way)
A mounting block is the safest and simplest way for anyone, especially beginners. It brings you closer to the saddle height. This is often the best way to get on a horse for the first time riding a horse.
Setting Up with the Block
- Lead the horse next to the mounting block.
- Turn the horse’s head slightly towards the block. This keeps the horse straight.
- Make sure the block is sturdy and won’t move.
The Mounting Process Using a Block
- Hold the Reins: Take the reins in your left hand. Keep light contact with the horse’s mouth. Hold the front of the saddle (the pommel) or the mane with your right hand.
- Foot Placement: Place your left foot firmly into the left stirrup. Make sure your heel is slightly lower than your toe.
- Push Up: Push up off the block with your right foot. Use your hands to keep yourself steady. Do not pull hard on the horse’s mouth or saddle.
- Swing Over: Swing your right leg smoothly over the horse’s back and rump. Be careful not to kick the horse.
- Settle In: Lower yourself slowly into the saddle. Do not plop down. Let your weight sink in gently.
- Stirrup Adjustment: Find your right stirrup and settle your feet in both stirrups.
Method 2: Mounting Without a Block (Ground Mounting)
If there is no block, you must mount directly from the ground. This requires more strength and balance. Safety when getting on a horse is very important here.
Key Considerations
- A horse that is very tall might need a helper or short step stool even if a formal block is missing.
- Always check the saddle girth again before trying this.
Ground Mounting Steps
- Stand next to the horse’s left shoulder. Hold the reins firmly with your left hand.
- Use your right hand to hold the back of the saddle (the cantle) or the saddle horn if there is one.
- Place your left foot into the stirrup.
- Use the stirrup to push yourself upward. Keep your body close to the horse’s side.
- As you rise, bring your right leg up and over the horse’s back. Try to swing it high and fast so you don’t bump the horse.
- Sit down softly. Your weight should go straight down, not sideways.
- Adjust your seat and place your right foot in the right stirrup.
Method 3: Using Horse Mounting Aids
For those who have trouble lifting their leg high or need extra support, horse mounting aids can be very helpful. These are tools designed to make mounting easier and safer.
Types of Mounting Aids
| Aid Type | Description | Best Use For |
|---|---|---|
| Portable Step | Small, fold-up steps. | Riders with less flexibility. |
| Auxiliary Stirrup | A temporary second stirrup hung on the saddle. | Taller horses or riders needing more height. |
| Support Strap | A handle attached to the saddle rigging. | People needing a firm handhold. |
If you need help, ask someone to hold the horse steady. If you have trouble lifting your leg, look into getting a portable step.
Achieving the Proper Horse Mounting Position
Once you are in the saddle, your position matters. This is the proper horse mounting position. Good posture helps you ride better and keeps the horse balanced.
Settling Your Seat
When you first sit down, do not bounce or jam your weight onto the saddle.
- Sink slowly into the deepest part of the seat.
- Keep your weight centered over the horse’s center of gravity.
- Make sure the saddle doesn’t shift sideways.
Leg and Foot Placement
Your lower body alignment is crucial for balance and control.
- Stirrups: Put the ball of your foot (the widest part) into the stirrup. Your heel should be slightly lower than your toes. This acts as a shock absorber.
- Leg Position: Your leg should hang naturally down the horse’s side. Do not let your leg wrap around the horse or stick straight out.
- Thighs and Knees: Your thighs should rest lightly on the saddle. Your knees should gently touch the saddle flap. Avoid gripping too tightly with your knees, as this makes you stiff.
Upper Body Posture
Your upper body sets the tone for the ride.
- Sit tall, as if a string pulls you up from the top of your head.
- Keep your shoulders relaxed and back.
- Look forward where you want to go, not down at the horse’s neck.
- Hold the reins loosely enough to allow the horse to move its head, but firmly enough to maintain light contact.
Safety When Getting On A Horse: Rules to Follow
Safety when getting on a horse is non-negotiable. A fall during mounting can cause serious injury to both you and the horse. Always follow these simple safety rules.
Rule 1: Always Check the Horse’s Mood
A nervous or fresh horse might try to walk off as you mount.
- Watch the horse’s ears. Are they pinned back or twitchy?
- If the horse seems restless, take a moment to walk it forward a few steps before trying to mount again.
- If you are nervous, the horse will likely sense it. Take deep breaths.
Rule 2: Secure Your Equipment
Never mount a horse with a loose saddle or stirrup leather.
- A saddle sliding sideways is a major fall risk.
- A stirrup leather that breaks when you put weight on it can throw you off balance instantly.
Rule 3: Use Your Hands Wisely
Your hands control your balance and the horse’s head.
- Never grab the horse’s mane or tail to pull yourself up. This hurts the horse.
- Use the pommel (front) or cantle (back) of the saddle for support.
- Keep a light but steady hold on the reins to keep the horse straight.
Rule 4: Don’t Rush the Swing
The moment your leg swings over the horse’s back is the most dangerous part.
- If you hesitate or swing your leg too slowly, you might hit the horse, spooking it.
- Swing your leg over in one smooth, confident motion.
When You Need Help: Assisting with Mounting a Horse
Sometimes riders need help. An experienced person can provide support. Assisting with mounting a horse requires good positioning from the helper.
Helper’s Role
The helper stands on the near side (left) of the horse, near the flank (hindquarters).
- Steady the Horse: The helper firmly holds the reins close to the horse’s neck. They can also place one hand lightly on the horse’s flank to prevent it from stepping forward.
- Support the Rider: The helper can hold the rider’s belt or the back of the saddle skirt. This provides stability as the rider swings their leg over.
- Guide the Leg: The helper ensures the rider’s leg clears the horse’s rump cleanly.
Using a Mounting Block with Assistance
Even with a block, assistance is good for nervous riders. The helper stands on the ground next to the block. They stabilize the horse and offer a reassuring hand to the rider.
Fathoming the Horse’s Reaction to Being Mounted
Horses are prey animals. Sudden pressure on their back can make them move. Comprehending how a horse reacts helps you stay safe.
Weight and Balance
A horse feels pressure strongly on its back. When you put your full weight onto the saddle:
- The horse might instinctively move forward or jerk its head up.
- This is why a steady helper or a mounting block is so useful—they minimize the shock of your weight.
Leading the Horse After Mounting
After you are securely seated, do not just sit still waiting. This allows the horse to get restless.
- Ask the horse to walk forward a few steps very gently (e.g., tapping with your leg or clicking your tongue).
- This transfers the horse’s focus from standing still to moving forward slightly.
- Once moving, you can then ask for a halt or begin your ride properly. This small walk helps settle the horse after the mounting action.
Common Problems When Learning to Mount a Horse
Many new riders face similar struggles when first mounting. Knowing these issues helps you fix them faster.
Problem 1: Difficulty Reaching the Stirrup
If you can’t reach the stirrup even when standing on your toes, your stirrup leather is probably too short.
- Fix: Ask an experienced rider or instructor to adjust the stirrup leather length on the left side. Remember, the left stirrup needs to be slightly longer than the right one when you are standing on the ground before mounting.
Problem 2: Pulling on the Reins to Stand Up
If you pull hard on the reins to haul yourself up, you hurt the horse’s mouth.
- Fix: Use the saddle for support instead of the reins. If you need height, use a mounting block. Practice lifting yourself with your legs first, keeping only light contact with the reins.
Problem 3: Kicking the Horse with the Right Leg
This happens when the rider is slow swinging the leg over.
- Fix: Be decisive. Take a deep breath and swing your leg high and fast over the horse’s back. Keep your knee relaxed so it doesn’t bump hard against the horse.
Problem 4: The Horse Walks Off
The horse moves right as you try to put your weight in the saddle.
- Fix: Ensure the horse is truly standing still. If you are mounting without assistance, hold the reins tight enough, and ask a helper to hold the horse steady. If it still moves, dismount, walk the horse in a small circle, and ask it to stand again.
Choosing the Right Equipment for Mounting
Using the right gear makes the entire process much simpler and safer.
Saddle Type Matters
Different saddles affect how easy it is to get on.
- Western Saddles: These often have a prominent horn, which is a great, stable handle to hold onto during mounting. They usually have a wider fender (the flap covering the stirrup leather), which gives more space for the leg swing.
- English Saddles: These have a smaller pommel and cantle. They require a steadier hand on the mane or pommel, as there is less to grab.
Stirrup Choice
Some riders prefer safety stirrups, which are designed to release the foot if a fall occurs. While excellent for riding, ensure they don’t accidentally release while you are mounting.
Height Matters: Using a Mounting Block for Horses
A mounting block for horses is not just for beginners. It is a permanent piece of safety gear for any stable.
- Accessibility: It helps older riders, riders with injuries, or anyone riding a very tall horse (like a warmblood or draft cross).
- Horse Comfort: It reduces the jarring impact on the horse’s back compared to ground mounting.
| Block Height Suggestion | Ideal Rider/Horse Height |
|---|---|
| 1 Step (approx. 12 inches) | Small ponies or shorter riders. |
| 2 Steps (approx. 18-24 inches) | Average adult riders and average height horses. |
| 3 Steps (approx. 30+ inches) | Very tall horses or riders with limited mobility. |
Moving Forward: From Mounting to Riding
Once you have mastered mounting a horse techniques, the next step is riding forward. Remember that mounting correctly sets up your entire ride. If you are unbalanced when you sit down, you will feel off-balance for the next hour.
Adjusting After Mounting
After you are settled, take a second to check everything:
- Seat Check: Are you balanced in the middle of the saddle?
- Foot Check: Are both feet securely in the stirrups with proper heel depth?
- Reins Check: Do you have light, steady contact?
When you are ready, use your seat aids (a slight squeeze with your legs) and ask the horse to move forward slowly. Congratulate yourself for getting on safely! Practice makes perfect, and soon, getting on your horse will feel like second nature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the safest way to get on a horse?
The safest way to get on a horse is by using a sturdy mounting block, standing on the near (left) side, holding the reins lightly, placing your left foot in the stirrup, and swinging your right leg over smoothly without bumping the horse.
Can I teach myself how to mount a horse alone?
Yes, you can learn by yourself if you use a mounting block consistently and start with a very calm, steady horse. However, having an instructor or experienced friend watch you when learning to mount a horse is highly recommended for safety checks.
Why must I always mount from the left side?
Mounting from the left side (the near side) is tradition, but it serves a practical purpose. Most tack is designed for the left side to be used for mounting. Also, swinging your leg over the right side keeps your heavy stirrup leather away from the horse’s sensitive flank area.
What if I don’t have a mounting block?
If you lack a block, look for a natural step, like a sturdy curb, or use a small, reliable step stool. If nothing is available, you must practice the ground mounting technique, emphasizing a quick, smooth leg swing to avoid startling the horse.
How long should my stirrups be for mounting?
When preparing for mounting, your stirrup leather on the mounting side (left) should be slightly longer than the one you ride on. This gives you the necessary slack to find the stirrup easily with your foot while keeping your heel slightly lowered.