Have you ever wondered what side you should mount a horse from? It may seem like a simple question, but the answer depends on various factors such as tradition, safety, and ease of use. For centuries, different cultures and riding styles have had their own preferences for mounting a horse, leading to confusion for many new riders. In this article, we will explore the answer to this age-old question and provide insight into the reasons behind it.

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The History of Mounting Horses – Why It Matters

Before we delve into the different sides of mounting a horse, it is essential to understand the history behind it and why it matters. Historically, mounted soldiers would mount their horses from the left side, as it allowed them to keep their right hand free to draw their sword if needed. This practice continued even after the decline of mounted warfare, as it became traditional among equestrians. Over time, this tradition has become deeply ingrained in the equestrian world, making it the preferred side for mounting a horse.

Safety First: The Importance of Choosing the Right Side

Aside from tradition, there are also practical reasons behind choosing a particular side when mounting a horse. Safety is the most crucial factor to consider, especially for novice or inexperienced riders. As horses are prey animals, they can be easily spooked by sudden movements or noises, which can lead to accidents. When mounting a horse from the left side, the rider’s body acts as a barrier between the horse and any potential danger on the ground. This allows the rider to control the horse and prevent it from bolting or kicking out in fear.

Mounting from the left side also means that the girth is on the left, making it easier to tighten and adjust before riding. This is especially important for English style riding, where a tight girth is necessary for proper balance and control of the horse. In contrast, mounting from the right side may result in an unevenly tightened girth, leading to discomfort or even injury for the horse.

Traditional Riding Styles: The Left Versus Right Debate

As mentioned earlier, different riding styles have different preferences for mounting a horse. In traditional English riding, such as dressage and show jumping, horses are mounted from the left side as it is the most common and safest practice. However, in Western riding, which originated from cowboy culture, horses are mounted from the right side. This practice was adapted from the Mexican vaqueros, who rode with their sword on the right side and needed to mount from that side to draw it easily.

In some European countries, such as Germany and Austria, horses are often mounted from the right side for traditional reasons. This is because in these countries, the tradition of mounted soldiers mounting from the left side never existed. Instead, they would mount from the right side to keep their right hand free for tasks such as saluting or shooting a rifle. As a result, this tradition has carried over into their equestrian practices.

How To Mount A Horse From The Left

Before mounting a horse, it is essential to establish trust and respect with the animal. Make sure to approach the horse calmly and confidently, showing them that you are in control. It is also a good idea to check the horse’s body language and make sure they are relaxed before proceeding.

Step 1: Positioning

Stand on the left side of the horse, facing towards its rear end. Keep a distance of about an arm’s length away from the horse’s hindquarters to avoid being kicked.

Step 2: Hold The Reins And Stirrup

Gather the reins in your left hand and hold the stirrup with your right hand. The reins should be gathered loosely so that the horse has enough room to move its head and neck without pulling on the rider’s hand.

Step 3: Check The Girth

Make sure the girth is tightened appropriately and that the saddle is secure before mounting.

Step 4: Swing Your Right Leg Over

With your right hand still holding the stirrup, swing your right leg over the horse’s back and position it in the stirrup. Make sure not to kick the horse’s hindquarters while doing this.

Step 5: Shift Your Weight And Mount

Transfer your weight onto your left hand and use your right hand to hold onto the saddle for balance. Push yourself up with your left foot and swing your right leg over the horse’s back to mount.

How To Mount A Horse From The Right

Mounting a horse from the right side follows a similar process to mounting from the left. However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.

Step 1: Positioning

Stand on the right side of the horse, facing towards its rear end, just like when mounting from the left. However, make sure to stand slightly closer to the horse to avoid having to reach too far when swinging your leg over.

Step 2: Hold The Reins And Stirrup

Hold the reins in your right hand and the stirrup with your left hand. This is the opposite of when mounting from the left.

Step 3: Check The Girth

As with mounting from the left, make sure the girth is tightened correctly.

Step 4: Swing Your Left Leg Over

Swing your left leg over the horse’s back and position it in the stirrup. Keep your right hand on the reins and your left hand on the saddle for balance.

Step 5: Shift Your Weight And Mount

Shift your weight onto your right hand and use your left foot to push yourself up and swing your left leg over the horse’s back to mount.

FAQs About Mounting Horses

Is It Bad To Mount A Horse From The Right?

No, it is not necessarily “bad” to mount a horse from the right. However, it is not the traditional or recommended method and may not be suitable for inexperienced riders.

Can You Mount A Horse From Both Sides?

Yes, you can mount a horse from both sides, but it is generally recommended to stick with one side to establish a routine and maintain consistency.

Is It Easier To Mount A Horse From The Left Or Right?

For most riders, it is easier to mount a horse from the left as that is the traditional and preferred side. However, some riders may find it easier to mount from the right, depending on their dominant hand and riding style.

Should I Use A Mounting Block?

Using a mounting block can make mounting a horse easier, especially for shorter riders or horses with tall backs. It also reduces the strain on the horse’s back when mounting.

Is There A Correct Way To Mount A Horse?

The correct way to mount a horse is the way that is safest and most comfortable for both the rider and the horse. As long as proper safety precautions are taken, there is no right or wrong way to mount a horse.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the answer to what side to mount a horse from is the left side. This is the traditional and safest method, widely accepted in the equestrian world. However, exceptions can be made depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences. Ultimately, the most important thing is to establish trust and respect with the horse and ensure proper safety measures are taken before mounting. Happy riding!