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How to Mount a Horse

By , About.com Guide

5 of 7

Lift Off!

Use your right leg to push you up and as you start to lift yourself up. Your hands will be only there for balance. Don't use your arms to try to pull yourself up. The spring of your leg should propel you upwards. It sometimes helps to do a few tentative springs to help gain momentum.

As you become balanced over the horse's withers let go with your right hand moving it up to the reins then swing your free leg up and over the cantle of the saddle. Be sure to lift your leg high enough to not kick your horse in the haunch or hit your leg on the back of the saddle. Settle gently into the saddle. Coming down with a thud will be uncomfortable for your horse and may even startle it.

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