How to get on a horse without a mounting block, and how to teach your horse to stand still at the mount.
You are out on a trail ride and need to dismount to open a gate.Maybe you have dropped something or taken a tumble.It happens to the best of us.You are left wondering how you can get back on your horse without a mounting block.
It is not a good idea to mount from the ground unless you absolutely have to.
It is important to remember that mounting from the ground puts a lot of strain on your horse's back.If your horse is spooked and moves suddenly while you are trying to get on, it can be dangerous.There are some other tips for getting on a horse without a mounting block.
Someone can give you a leg up.It should make things easier for you, and more comfortable for your horse, because you get the benefit of their propulsion as well.Hand positions and landing are the same.
If you haven't tried it before, it could put a strain on your back, and if you are heavier than your helpers, you could end up in a heap on the ground.
You can get a helpers to push the stirrup on the other side of the saddle.When you press down in the stirrup, the saddle is less likely to slip and your horse can remain square.eval(ez_write_tag)
If you are a ground-mounter with a flighty horse, you might want to ask your helpers to hold your horse steady.
You can find other ways to even out the height difference between you and your horse if you don't have a mounting block.There are a lot of tree stumps, flat rocks and steps that can be used as mounting aids.It is important to assess the safety of whatever you are using.If you are trying to get on your horse, think about where you might end up.
Finding higher ground is an option.If you are riding somewhere with undulating ground, you can use this to your advantage by positioning your horse in a dip while you ride, or by standing a little way up a hill with the horse on the level ground.If you don't mount successfully the first time, make sure that your horse is able to stand squarely and that you are not forcing him off balance.
If your horse isn't very good at standing still, or if there are high winds or loud noises, you might want to consider using a fence or hill to keep him from walking away from you.eval(ez_write_tag)
It is worth practicing every now and again just so that you are prepared, like a fire drill, as you don't want to make a habit of getting on without your mounting block.
To get used to the process, you need to go over it step by step.If you have to use the technique unexpectedly, your horse doesn't feel like there's cause for concern.
Training your horse to stand still as you ride is one of the best preparations you can make.This can take time but it will pay off in the end.You can teach him to maneuver himself next to what you are mounting.If you are having to stand on a tree stump or hill, this is priceless.
There is an excellent resource on this topic.You can pick up some tips from this training demonstration.
Most horse riders are fit and active, but there is always room for improvement.A better riding experience for both you and your horse can be achieved through exercises on the ground.If you want to get on a horse without a mounting block, there are some stretches you can do which will give you better flexibility.
If you want to get on your horse, you need a greater range of movement, which can only be achieved by stretching and improving your hip flexor flexibility.
It is vital for both you and your horse that you make mounting as swift and smooth as it can be, for many reasons.
When you mount your horse with your entire body weight in the stirrup, he experiences more pressure on his back than when you are sitting and riding.He has to go through a lot before you even get to the top.
Repeatedly mounting from the ground, especially if it is done clumsily or if your horse moves away from you, is going to increase the chances of him developing a back injury.
Training him to stand still, improving his own fitness, using an object or the landscape to decrease the distance you need to travel to hike yourself up and over, getting a leg up / stirrup hold from a helpers, are all great ways to protect his back from injury.
A ride that begins calmly and without drama is set up for success.Your horse will be better able to concentrate on the job at hand and listen to the signals you give him if you are more aware of your surroundings.
We ride because we enjoy it.We don't want to worry about not being able to get back on if we need to.
If you follow the steps in this guide, you can get on your horse without a mounting block, wherever you are.You will be able to focus on your ride and have fun, no matter where you are.
Two people are passionate about horses.One horse owner and one horse rider.They have more than 40 years of experience with horses and horses.
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We are both horse fans.We have more than 30 years of experience with these majestic animals and both of us took up riding before rounding a decade.One is a horse owner and the other is an adventure traveler.The website was created for the love of horses and shares helpful information and insights for anyone who is interested in horses.We hope you enjoy Horse Learner.