Make Getting on a Horse Easier

I take a certain pride in being able to mount my horse from the ground. In fact, if I really muster up the energy, I can even hop on bareback without help. (That I’m taller than average gives me an advantage.) But while I think it’s very important to be able to get on a horse from the ground, it isn’t the best for your horse’s back, your saddle, and even your own back. Having the agility to mount from the ground is important because you aren’t always near a mounting block. But when a mounting block is handy, you should use it.

I have no doubt that some of you can pop into the saddle without disturbing your horse or saddle very much, many of us can’t. Mounting from the ground, whether you ride in an English or western style saddle, shifts the saddle on the horse’s back. If the horse moves away just as you are start shifting your weight upwards, the saddle can be pulled right around—which can be inconvenient or even dangerous. Over time, the saddle tree can become twisted because weight is always placed on the near side. Likewise, it puts less strain on your English stirrup leathers, and your horse’s back if you use a mounting block.

So when you have a choice, use a mounting block. If you have shorter legs or a taller horse you can try lengthening a stirrup leather on the mounting side so you can reach it with your toe, or try something like EZ Up Stirrup Extenders. When you’re out on trail, look for a safe tree stump or rock to step up on. Even parking your horse downhill from you or in a slight hollow will make it easier to get up into the saddle.