Traditionally, horses are saddled and mounted from the left side, often referred to as the "near side." However, for the horse's long-term comfort and well-being, best practices suggest training your horse to be mounted from both sides.
The Traditional Approach: The "Near Side"
The practice of saddling and mounting horses from the left side has historical roots, primarily stemming from military traditions. Most people are right-handed, and soldiers typically wore their swords on their left hip. Mounting from the left allowed them to swing their right leg over the horse without the sword getting in the way, ensuring quicker and safer mounting. This tradition has carried over into modern equestrianism.
Key aspects of the traditional approach include:
- Consistency: Horses are creatures of habit, and consistent handling from one side can make the saddling process routine and less stressful.
- Safety: Familiarity with a single approach can reduce unpredictable movements from the horse.
- Historical Precedent: Passed down through generations of horse trainers and riders.
Why Training for Both Sides is Crucial for Horse Welfare
While the traditional left-side approach is common, mounting a horse consistently from only one side can have significant implications for their physical health and balance. Modern understanding of equine biomechanics highlights the benefits of a more balanced approach.
Mitigating Physical Strain
Mounting a horse repeatedly from just one side can exert significant, uneven pressure on the horse's withers and back muscles. This imbalance can lead to several problems over time:
- Sore Backs: Consistent uneven pressure is a common cause of back soreness and discomfort for horses.
- Uneven Muscle Development: It can contribute to asymmetrical muscle development, affecting the horse's overall balance and performance.
- Joint Strain: Uneven loading can put undue stress on the horse's joints, particularly in the shoulders and hips.
Training your horse to be mounted from either side helps to:
- Equalize pressure across the horse's back and withers, distributing weight more evenly.
- Contribute to the horse's overall balance and promote symmetrical muscle development.
- Have a positive impact on your saddle's fit and longevity by distributing stress more evenly, which can extend the life of your tack.
Enhancing Horse Balance and Training
Beyond physical benefits, training your horse to accept mounting from both sides offers several advantages:
- Improved Responsiveness: It enhances the horse's general obedience and trust, as they become accustomed to handling from all directions.
- Increased Flexibility: You gain the flexibility to mount in various situations, such as when one side is obstructed or in an emergency.
- Mental Stimulation: It provides valuable mental stimulation and helps create a more well-rounded, confident horse.
Practical Tips for Training Both-Side Mounting
Introducing mounting from the "off side" (right side) should be done gradually and patiently to ensure a positive experience for your horse.
- Start Gradually: Begin by simply approaching your horse from the right side, petting them, and letting them get comfortable with your presence.
- Practice Leading: Lead your horse from the right side regularly during groundwork sessions.
- Introduce the Saddle: Place the saddle on the horse's back from the right side occasionally, without immediately attempting to mount.
- Simulate Mounting: Once comfortable, gently put your foot in the stirrup and apply light pressure, without fully mounting. Reward your horse for standing calmly.
- Partial Mounts: Gradually progress to partial mounts, lifting yourself slightly out of the stirrup on the right side, then gently lowering yourself back down.
- Full Mounts: Only attempt a full mount from the right side when your horse shows no signs of anxiety and remains relaxed. Always dismount from both sides as well.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, verbal praise, and gentle strokes to reward your horse for calm behavior throughout the process.
Comparing Mounting Practices
Here’s a quick overview of the differences between traditional and modern recommended mounting practices:
| Aspect | Traditional Approach (Left Side Only) | Modern/Best Practice (Both Sides) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Mounting Side | Exclusively the left ("near side"). | Primarily the left, but regularly practiced from the right ("off side"). |
| Rationale | Historical convenience (swords), perceived safety, and habit. | Equal distribution of pressure, improved horse welfare, enhanced training, and rider flexibility. |
| Horse Welfare Impact | Can lead to uneven pressure on withers, potential for sore backs, and asymmetrical muscle development over time. | Equalizes pressure, reduces risk of back soreness, promotes balanced muscle development, and improves overall comfort. |
| Saddle Impact | Uneven stress on the saddle tree and panels due to consistent one-sided pressure. | Distributes stress more evenly across the saddle, potentially extending its lifespan and maintaining a better fit. |
| Training Benefits | Creates a predictable routine, but can result in a horse that is "one-sided." | Fosters a more adaptable, confident, and well-rounded horse, less prone to spooks when approached from unusual directions. |
By incorporating mounting from both sides into your routine, you are not only enhancing your horse's physical comfort and balance but also strengthening your bond and improving their overall training. For more comprehensive information on proper saddling and mounting techniques, consult resources from organizations like the United States Equestrian Federation or the British Horse Society.
