Getting into the saddle can look simple until you try it. For a few seconds, you are balancing on one leg while the horse needs to stand quietly. Learning how to mount a horse safely is therefore about preparation, balance and patience, not hauling yourself upwards.
Beginners should practise with a suitable horse, a qualified instructor and a secure mounting block. Once you understand the sequence, mounting becomes a calm start to a ride rather than a hurried scramble.
Prepare before approaching the mounting block
Make sure the horse is relaxed and standing on firm, level ground, with enough room to move around safely. Approach from the side and speak quietly so it knows you are there. Never surprise a horse by coming directly from behind.
Ask your instructor to check that the saddle is correctly positioned, the girth is suitably tightened, the bridle fits and the stirrups are secure. A loose girth could allow the saddle to slide sideways when you put weight into one stirrup. Check comfort as well as security: a horse reacting to pain should not be forced to stand for mounting.
Wear a properly fitted, fastened riding helmet and appropriate riding boots with a defined heel. Avoid dangling straps or loose clothing that could catch. New riders should have an experienced person supervising; British Equestrian recommends assistance during early lessons so beginners can concentrate on technique.
Why use a mounting block?
A solid mounting block reduces the distance you need to lift yourself. It also helps avoid excessive pulling on the saddle and uneven pressure on the horse’s back. The British Horse Society advises using a block instead of routinely mounting from the ground.
Choose purpose-made steps with a stable, non-slip surface. Test that the block does not wobble. Never substitute a bucket, garden chair or loose stack of objects. Position it close enough that you can reach the stirrup without leaning far across the horse, while leaving space for your legs.
How to mount a horse safely: the sequence
1. Position the horse and wait for a halt
In most UK riding schools, beginners mount from the horse’s left side, known as the near side. Bring the horse parallel to the block. It should stand still, with sufficient clearance behind the saddle for your right leg to pass over.
For your first lessons, an experienced handler should steady the horse under the instructor’s direction. Do not tie the horse to a fixed object while you attempt to mount.
2. Organise the reins
Gather both reins in your left hand and maintain gentle, organised contact. The reins should discourage the horse from wandering forwards, without pulling its head back. Depending on your instructor’s method, the hand can rest near the withers, perhaps with a small hold of mane for stability.
Never use the reins to drag yourself into the saddle. Doing so can hurt the horse’s mouth and compromise your own balance.
3. Put your left foot in the stirrup
Turn the stirrup so it lies flat and place the ball of your left foot on its tread. Do not push your entire foot through. Keep your toe away from the horse’s side; an accidental kick may prompt it to walk on.
If you cannot reach comfortably, ask for a higher approved block or an adjustment. Stretching, bouncing and hopping beside the horse increase the chance of a mishap.
4. Rise in a controlled movement
Place your right hand on the part of the saddle indicated by your instructor. Push upwards mainly from your right leg on the block and transfer your weight smoothly. Avoid yanking on the cantle or pulling the saddle sharply sideways.
Try to bring your hips above the seat before you move your right leg over. This helps you stay balanced and reduces the temptation to fall across the horse’s back.
5. Swing your leg over and lower gently
Lift your right leg clear of the horse’s quarters, being careful not to kick the rump or clip the saddle. Bring yourself centrally above the seat and lower into it softly. Dropping heavily into the saddle can startle or discomfort the horse.
6. Settle before asking the horse to move
Find your right stirrup, check that both feet sit securely and take the reins evenly in both hands. Sit upright, look ahead and allow your instructor to check your stirrup length and girth if needed.
Pause. Make sure you feel centred and the horse remains calm before asking it to walk. That quiet moment is part of safe horse mounting.
What if the horse moves away?
If the horse walks forwards, swings its hindquarters away or becomes tense, stop the attempt. Do not chase a moving stirrup with your foot or pull hard on the reins. Ask your instructor to bring the horse back to the block and work out why it moved.
For example, imagine a lesson pony takes one step forwards just as you place your foot in the stirrup. Instead of trying to jump aboard, take your foot out if it is safe, regain your footing on the block and let the handler settle the pony. A fresh, calm attempt is better than a rushed one.
Repeated movement may indicate poor training, anxiety, discomfort or an unsuitable setup. An experienced professional should address the underlying issue; it is not a problem for a beginner to correct alone.
Small mistakes that can cause big problems
Common errors include mounting from unstable furniture, pulling on the reins, slipping a foot too deeply into the stirrup and landing heavily. Looking down throughout the movement or leaning across the horse also makes balance harder.
Horse riding basics extend beyond getting on. Understanding the correct riding position, using gentle rein aids and learning a safe dismount will all help you feel more secure. Practise these skills with an instructor rather than attempting them independently on an unfamiliar horse.
Frequently asked questions
Should beginners always use a mounting block?
A secure block is the preferred choice for ordinary beginner lessons. It makes the movement easier and reduces strain on horse and tack. Ask an instructor about an appropriate alternative if one is not available.
Which side of the horse should I mount?
Most beginners are taught to mount from the left, or near side. Horses can learn to accept mounting from either side, but follow the routine your instructor has established.
How tightly should I hold the reins?
Use enough contact to remain organised, not enough to pull the horse backwards. A coach can show you the correct hand position for that particular horse.
What if I lose my balance while mounting?
Do not cling to the reins or make a desperate leap. Follow your instructor’s directions and, if safe, step down and begin again with assistance.
Make calm mounting a habit
The safest way to mount is unhurried: check the equipment, position the horse, use a stable block, organise your reins and move smoothly into the saddle. With patient instruction and practice, the routine becomes more comfortable for both horse and rider—and sets a better tone for the ride ahead.