How to Get Into a Saddle Easily

Horseback riding can be a fun and rewarding activity, at least once you are in the saddle. Many riders struggle to get mounted correctly, and mounting can be a particular problem if you have a tall horse or if you suffer from joint and leg problems. Fortunately, there are some strategies you can use to make getting up in the saddle safer and easier.

Things You'll Need

  • Mounting block
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the tightness of the cinch before you attempt to mount your horse. If the cinch is tight enough, your hand should fit snugly between the cinch and the side of the horse.

    • 2

      Place a mounting block next to the horse, just in front of the saddle. Stand on the mounting block and carefully place your foot in the stirrup. Once your foot is firmly in the stirrup, swing your leg up over the back of the saddle and carefully lower yourself onto the horse's back. Try not to simply plop down on the horse, since this can be bad for his back.

    • 3

      Stand your horse so that the off side of the saddle is facing downhill. This position puts the stirrup closer to the ground and makes it easier for you to mount without the aid of a mounting block. This strategy can be particularly effective for remounting when you are out on the trail.

    • 4

      Ask a friend to hold your horse if he tends to move around when you try to mount. Having the horse move while you are mounting can be dangerous, so it is important to break this bad habit as quickly as you can. Mounting repeatedly and rewarding the horse for standing still is typically the best way to get rid of this common problem.