There’s a lot more to mounting a horse than simply jumping on. A proper mount goes a long way in establishing trust between the horse and the rider.
Step One
Take the reins in your left hand (drape the slack over the horse’s right side). Grasp hold of the base of the horse’s mane with your left hand as well.
Step Two
Use your right hand to turn the left stirrup iron toward you. Put your left foot in the stirrup, parallel to the horse’s side.
Step Three
Grab the back of the saddle, or cantle, with your right hand.
Step Four
Bounce on the ball of your right foot.
Step Five
Push off with your right foot and put your weight on your left foot (in the stirrup), while simultaneously pulling on the saddle and the horse’s neck.
Step Six
Balance on your hands and left foot in a standing position, then swing your right foot over the horse as you release your right hand from the saddle.
Step Seven
Lower yourself gently into the saddle.
Step Eight
Put your right foot in the stirrup and take up the slack in the reins.