How to Mount a Horse

Series Summary

Man has enjoyed a unique relationship with the horses on this planet. Horses have carried individuals into battle, brave and without fear. They’ve helped people travel over long stretches of terrain. In some parts of the world, they still pull the farmer’s plows and carry loads. They’ve been indispensable in herding and driving cattle. The police have mounted horse patrols for crowd control situations in urban environments. There is no question: horses have proven to be well-suited for human life, expressing qualities of loyalty and bravery, responding to commands, and usually having a calm, docile demeanor. In this free video series, learn some basics about horse case and horseback riding. Mara Keith-Hunter is a lifelong equestrian who is also an equestrian team coach. She discusses the basics of caring for horses: feeding horses, cleaning horse ears, grooming horses and washing horses. Discover how to pick up a horse's legs to clean their hooves. Also, find out how to saddle and bridle a horse. Curious about how to get on a horse? Let Keith-Hunter explain an easy way to mount horses. Learn to ride a horse, including how to back up and how to jump a horse. So, take a moment, and discover more about horseback riding today!

Video Transcript

"When mounting it's important to first check and make sure your girth is tight. Then we're going to run down each stirrup. You don't have to use a mounting block but I find it that it's best for your horses back if you do. We'll take the mounting block, set it just even with the stirrup and step up holding on to the reigns. And we'll shorten up the reigns, left hand on the neck, right hand at the back of the saddle, bring the left foot up in to the stirrup. Be careful that you turn your toe in to the girth not in to the horse's side. And then swing up. Carefully bring your right leg over the saddle and both feet into the stirrup."