Yes, you can learn how to jump on a horse! Mounting a horse is a basic skill for anyone wanting to ride. It is safe when done the right way. This guide will show you simple steps for getting on a horse correctly. We will cover everything for horseback riding basics so you feel good about mounting techniques.
Preparing for the Mount: Safety First
Before you even think about climbing up, safety checks are very important. A calm horse makes a safe mount. Always check your gear. This is key to learning to ride a horse.
Checking the Horse and Gear
A good rider always checks the horse first. Look at the saddle and the girth (the strap that goes under the belly).
- Saddle Check: Make sure the saddle sits flat. Look for any rips or tears in the leather.
- Girth Tightness: The girth must be snug, but not too tight. Have someone check it. Two fingers should fit between the girth and the horse’s skin. A loose girth can cause the saddle to slip. This is very dangerous.
- Stirrups: Check that the stirrups are hanging right. Untangle any twisted leathers.
- Bridle: Ensure the bit is in the horse’s mouth correctly. The reins should be easy to grab.
Choosing the Right Mounting Spot
Where you get on matters a lot. Picking the right spot keeps you and the horse safe.
- Flat Ground: Always stand on level ground. Never mount on a hill. The horse might shift its weight.
- No Obstacles: Make sure there are no low branches or walls nearby. You need space above your head.
- Use a Horse Mounting Block: If you are shorter or new, a horse mounting block is your best friend. These blocks raise you closer to the horse’s back. They make the process easier and kinder to the horse’s back.
Handling the Reins
You must control the horse while you mount.
- Hold the Reins: Hold the reins in your left hand. Keep them short enough to stop the horse from walking off. They should have some slack, but you must have control.
- Lead the Horse to Mount: If the horse is not tied, you may need someone to help. This person holds the lead rope or reins to keep the horse still. This is part of the leading a horse to mount process.
The Step-by-Step Equestrian Mounting Process
The equestrian mounting process is done mostly from the horse’s left side. This tradition comes from old times when riders wore swords on their left hip.
Step 1: Position Yourself
Stand next to the horse’s left shoulder. Face the tail of the horse slightly. Your body should be close to the horse’s side.
- Distance: Stand just behind the front of the saddle. This is the best spot to start.
Step 2: Holding the Reins and Saddle
Your hands do important jobs here.
- Left Hand Grip: Hold the left rein firmly in your left hand. Place this hand near the crest (the top of the neck). This hand keeps the horse steady.
- Secure the Saddle: With your right hand, grab the front of the saddle seat or the pommel (the front arch of the saddle). If you have a western saddle, grab the horn. This gives you stability.
Step 3: Placing Your Foot in the Stirrup
This is where things start moving up.
- Left Foot Only: Raise your left leg and place your left boot firmly into the left stirrup. Make sure your foot goes in far enough for your heel to clear the stirrup leather. You want the ball of your foot on the tread.
- Keep Balance: As you lift your leg, lean slightly against the horse to maintain balance. Do not pull too hard on the horse’s neck.
Step 4: The Push and Swing
This is the main action of mounting a horse.
- Push Up: Use your right hand to push down firmly on the saddle or pommel. At the same time, push up with your left leg, which is now in the stirrup.
- Swing Your Right Leg: Swing your right leg up and over the horse’s back. This must be a smooth, controlled motion. Do not kick the horse’s back or flank with your leg. A sharp kick can startle the horse.
- Clear the Rear: Keep your right leg high until it clears the horse’s rump completely. Look straight ahead, not down at the horse’s back.
Step 5: Settling into the Saddle
Once your leg is over, you need to sit down gently.
- Find the Seat: Slowly lower your weight into the saddle. Try to land softly, not drop hard. Your weight should settle into the deepest part of the seat.
- Right Stirrup: Once you are seated, find the right stirrup with your right foot. Slide your foot in.
Step 6: Adjusting Your Seat
Now you check your proper horse mounting position.
- Stirrup Depth: Your foot should be deep enough so that the arch of your foot is over the stirrup iron. You should be able to wiggle your toes. About one-third to one-half of your foot should be in the stirrup.
- Heels Down: Gently press your heels down. This helps keep your leg in the right place.
- Reins: Adjust the reins so you have a light, steady contact with the horse’s mouth.
Congratulations, you are mounted!
Variations in Mounting Techniques
Not every situation allows for the standard left-side mount. Sometimes, you must adapt your mounting techniques.
Mounting from a Block (Recommended for Beginners)
When using a horse mounting block, the process is much safer and easier for learning to ride a horse.
- Stand next to the block.
- Face the horse’s left side.
- Place your left foot into the stirrup.
- Use the block to lift you up higher. This cuts down on how high you have to swing your leg.
- Swing your right leg over smoothly.
- Sit down gently.
Mounting Without a Block (Ground Mount)
This requires more strength and flexibility. It is vital to move smoothly to avoid startling the horse.
- If you cannot reach the stirrup well, try grabbing the mane near the withers (where the neck meets the back) for a little extra lift.
- Keep your body weight close to the horse as you swing over. Leaning away can make the horse unbalanced.
Mounting from the Right Side
While less common, sometimes you must mount from the right. This is generally discouraged unless necessary, as horses are trained to expect action from the left. If you must mount from the right:
- Inform anyone helping you.
- Keep your movements slow and deliberate.
- Hold the reins as normal, controlling the horse with your right hand on the left rein.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Many new riders make small errors during mounting a horse. Fixing these early prevents bad habits.
| Mistake | Effect on Rider/Horse | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Kicking the horse’s side | Startles the horse; causes the horse to move away. | Swing the leg high and straight over. Do not let your heel tap the horse. |
| Dropping hard into the saddle | Jars the horse’s back; causes rider discomfort. | Lower your weight slowly, absorbing the movement with your legs. |
| Pulling too hard on the reins | Causes pain or resistance in the horse’s mouth. | Use your right hand on the saddle for support, not the reins. |
| Stirrup too shallow | Foot might slip out; poor balance when riding. | Ensure the ball of your foot is on the stirrup, heels down. |
| Mounting on uneven ground | Can cause the horse to step out unexpectedly. | Always move to flat, level ground before mounting techniques begin. |
Tips for Security and Balance
Balance is key to a good mount. Think about how you move your weight.
- Use Your Arms: Your arms act like shock absorbers. Keep them soft. Do not lean too heavily on the horse’s neck or mane.
- Keep Moving: Hesitation makes the mount look jerky. Be decisive. Once you start the swing, finish it quickly and smoothly.
- Practice Dismounting: Knowing how to safely get off is as important as knowing how to get on. The riding dismount follows the reverse steps, usually done on the left side as well.
Dismounting: The Reverse of Mounting
Safely finishing your ride is the last part of good horsemanship. The riding dismount mirrors the mount but in reverse.
Step 1: Prepare the Horse
- Stop the horse completely. Ask for a quiet halt.
- Take up contact on both reins to keep the horse still.
Step 2: Adjust Stirrups
If you ride with a very deep seat, you might need to shorten your stirrups slightly for the dismount, though many riders keep them the same.
Step 3: Right Stirrup Removal
- Move your right foot out of the stirrup.
- Hold the right rein lightly with your right hand.
- Place your right hand on the saddle seat behind you.
Step 4: Swing Over
- Push up lightly with your left foot in the stirrup.
- Swing your right leg smoothly over the horse’s back, just as you did when mounting. Keep it high and clear.
Step 5: Landing
- Slide off the saddle gently. Your right foot will touch the ground first.
- Let your left foot slide out of the stirrup as you step down.
- Once both feet are on the ground, move away from the horse.
Growing Your Skills: Beyond the Mount
Once you master getting on a horse correctly, you move into the core of horseback riding basics.
Communication While Mounted
A good mount leads to a good start. The way you hold the reins immediately after mounting sets the tone for the ride.
- Light Contact: Maintain a light, steady contact. This is your line of communication.
- Seat Aids: Your seat—the pressure from your thighs and seat bones—is your primary tool for steering and asking the horse to move forward.
The Importance of Consistency
Repetition builds muscle memory. The more often you practice the equestrian mounting process correctly, the easier it becomes. Ask your instructor to watch your technique every time you start. Small corrections now save big problems later.
If you are learning to ride a horse, focus on these steps until they become automatic. This frees your mind to focus on steering and balance.
Dealing with Difficult Mounts
Sometimes a horse moves slightly when you try to mount. This is often due to anticipation or slight nervousness.
- Address the Movement: If the horse steps forward, immediately ask for a firm halt again. Do not proceed until the horse stands still and quiet.
- Use a Helper: A helper who can hold the horse firmly is invaluable when first mounting a horse. They provide security for both you and the horse.
The goal of mounting techniques is always to be quiet, quick, and stable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mounting
Q: Can I mount a horse from the right side every time?
A: While you can, it is generally not recommended. Most riding disciplines and training focus on the left side for safety and tradition. Mounting from the right can sometimes cause the horse to shift its weight or expect different actions.
Q: What if I can’t reach the stirrup easily?
A: This is very common, especially for smaller riders. The best solution is to use a horse mounting block. If a block is unavailable, you can ask a helper to gently lift your knee slightly to help guide your foot into the stirrup. Never pull excessively on the horse’s neck or mane.
Q: How tight should the reins be when I am mounting a horse?
A: The reins should be snug enough that you can stop the horse from walking forward, but loose enough that you are not pulling on its mouth. You need enough slack to place your hand on the saddle or pommel without putting pressure on the bit.
Q: Is it bad for the horse if I drop heavily into the saddle?
A: Yes, it can be painful for the horse. When you drop your full weight quickly, it jars the horse’s spine. Practice lowering yourself slowly, using your legs as springs to absorb the impact. This is a critical part of getting on a horse correctly.
Q: Should I always use a horse mounting block?
A: No, experienced riders often don’t need one. However, for anyone learning to ride a horse, especially if the horse is tall or the rider is short, the block is highly recommended until balance and strength are fully developed for the equestrian mounting process.
Q: What is the riding dismount if I am riding Western?
A: The dismount is very similar to English riding. You usually dismount from the left. You remove your right foot first, swing your leg over, and then slide off, removing your left foot last. Ensure the horse is stopped and still before attempting the dismount.