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Mounting a horse can be quite an amusing time, for onlookers that is. Have you seen the leg up method where a friend gives the person a boost and the person ends up on the ground on the other side of the horse. Funny ... as long as it's not you.

Then there's the tragic moments when the long suffering beginner's mount stands patiently while the new rider tries to drag themselves up by the strength of their arms all the time weighing heavily on the horse's left side and then the saddle slips... If you don't wish to be a source of amusement for your friends or mistreat your trusting mount here are a few tips.

1. Check that the bridle and saddle are correctly adjusted and the girth is tight.

2. Check that the stirrup length is right. For beginners - Rest your fingertips at the point where the stirrup leathers attach to the saddle. Hold the leather perpendicular to the saddle, the bottom of the stirrup iron should fit snugly under your armpit.

3. Check that you are in a safe area with plenty of space between you and other horses.

Okay now you're ready to mount.

1. Stand on the left side of the horse. With your left hand gather the reins on the left side of the horse's neck and pass any excess rein over to the right side of the horse's neck.

2. With your left hand holding the reins face the back of the horse. Put your left foot in the stirrup and turn your foot slightly down against the girth - this will stop you from digging your toe into the horse as you mount.

3. With your right hand grip the front of the saddle. You may be tempted to hold either the back or other side of the saddle as it feels safer. If you do this however you will find your arm is in the way when you try to sit in the saddle and you will have to release your grip before you are seated safely.

4. Spring up off your right foot and swing your right leg over the back of the saddle. Take care to make sure your right leg clears your horse's rump. Settle lightly into the saddle. Your mount will appreciate this much more than your full weight falling down onto his back.

5. Put your right foot in the stirrup by pointing your toe in toward the horse then swiveling your ankle to the right. The stirrup leathers should lie flat against your legs. If they are twisted take your feet out of the stirrups and let them hang loose. Once more point your toes in so that your feet enter the stirrup irons from the outside then swivel your ankle until your toes point forward.

6. Release your hold on the front of the saddle and take up a rein in each hand. The reins should run through your ring and little fingers, across the palms of your hands and come out between your first finger and thumb.

Congratulations you are now mounted and ready to enjoy the ride.

Learn more about this author, Marie Hurley.
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