Mounting Your Horse: Easy Steps for a Safe Start

Getting on a horse can feel a bit nerve‑wracking, especially if you’re new or just getting back after a break. The good news? It’s mostly about good habits and a little practice. Below are straightforward tips that will help you mount confidently every time.

Check Your Gear First

Before you even think about swinging your leg over, make sure your saddle and stirrups are set right. The saddle should sit level, and the stirrup length needs to let you comfortably reach the foot with a slight bend in your knee. A loose girth is a safety risk, so give it a firm tug.

Position Yourself Correctly

Stand on the horse’s left side – the traditional “near side.” Keep the horse calm, give a gentle pat, and speak in a soothing tone. Place your left foot in the stirrup, lift your right foot up, and swing your right leg over the back.

When you swing, aim to place your right foot firmly in the right stirrup before you sit down. This keeps you balanced and prevents a sudden shift that could startle the horse.

Once you’re seated, adjust your legs so they hang naturally and your feet rest flat in the stirrups. Your weight should be centered, not too far forward or back. A balanced seat is the foundation for a smooth ride.

Take a moment to check your posture: shoulders relaxed, back straight, elbows tucked in. A tidy posture not only looks good but also gives the horse clear signals about how you want to move.

If you’re riding a horse that’s prone to spooking, keep your hands steady on the reins and maintain eye contact. A calm rider usually means a calm horse.

Practice the mount on a calm, well‑trained horse first. Once you feel comfortable, you can try it on different mounts – each horse may have a slightly different back shape or temperament.

Common mistakes to avoid: riding with stirrups too long, which forces you to lean forward, or trying to mount from the wrong side. Both can cause the horse to lose balance and can lead to falls.

Another slip‑up is neglecting to check the girth after you’re seated. Give it a quick squeeze again – a secure girth prevents the saddle from sliding forward when you start moving.

Remember, mounting is just the first part of the ride. After you’re up, take a few seconds to breathe, relax, and feel the horse’s rhythm before you head out.

By following these simple steps, you’ll turn mounting from a nervous moment into a routine you can do without thinking. The more you practice, the more natural it feels, and the more you’ll enjoy every ride.