Last article, I discussed the importance of a horse that stands still while the rider mounts and the rider's responsibilities during the mounting process. In this article I will give you more advice on how to mount safely.

    A horse that does not stand still for mounting can be a safety problem! If he jigs around when you want to mount, he may be thinking too fast and walking away in anticipation of your cue to go forward once you are mounted. More likely, however, he is trying to catch his balance because you are not mounting him properly.

    I suggest that you start using a mounting block. These are inexpensive, plastic step-like platforms made to give a rider an elevated surface from which to mount. Because the mounting block will put you higher off the ground, it will be easier to swing your leg over the horse to mount. Mounting blocks also decrease the stress put upon the horse's back from riders who pull themselves up into the saddle. They also are helpful for smaller riders when they are mounting a large horse.