Have you ever wondered why we always mount horses from the left side? The act of mounting a horse on the left may seem like a trivial tradition, but it actually has historical and practical origins. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this equestrian practice and provide a comprehensive understanding of the significance of mounting a horse on its left side.
The Historical Reason
Mounting horses from the left side dates back to medieval times when knights rode horses into battle. Since most people are right-handed, their swords were typically carried on their left side. This made it easier to mount a horse from the left, ensuring the sword didn't come in the way, and allowed for a smoother transition onto the horse's back. By always mounting from the left, knights could avoid accidentally injuring their horses and themselves with their weapons.
Habit and Muscle Memory
Over time, the practice of mounting a horse from the left side became a habit ingrained in the equestrian world. As it was passed down through the generations, the behavior became the standard for horse riding globally, and it still holds strong today. Mounting a horse from the same side each time allows both the rider and the horse to develop muscle memory, making the process more comfortable, smooth, and safe for both parties.
Horse Training
- Horses, by nature, are creatures of habit and often prefer routine and consistency. Consistently mounting from the left creates a sense of familiarity and comfort for the horse.
- When a horse is in training, it is crucial for trainers and handlers to work with the horse in a consistent manner to build trust and understanding. Mounting horses from the left side helps create that sense of uniformity and consistency in the horse's training.
- Having a standardized side for mounting also ensures that any trained horse you encounter will expect you to mount from the left. This makes it easier and safer for riders, no matter which horse they are riding.
Is Mounting From the Right Wrong?
While mounting from the left is the conventional practice, it doesn't mean that mounting from the right is inherently wrong or unsafe. In fact, it is important to train your horse to be comfortable being mounted from either side. A versatile horse is much safer and better equipped to handle unexpected situations. Additionally, mounting from the right might be necessary for riders with physical limitations, disabilities, or simply left-handed sword-carrying equestrians!
Why Mount Horse On Left Example:
Imagine you're attending a group horse riding lesson, and the instructor asks everyone to mount their horses. As each rider approaches their horse from the left side, they smoothly swing their right leg over the horse's back and settle comfortably into the saddle. This is a sight you'll commonly see in most equestrian settings as riders follow the historical and practical protocol of mounting from the left side.
Now that you know the reasons behind the tradition of mounting horses from the left side, you can appreciate its significance and adapt your riding practices accordingly. It's crucial to remember that consistency and familiarity are essential for both the rider and the horse in maintaining a safe and comfortable riding experience. Keep exploring our How to Own a Horse blog for more informative guides and in-depth articles on horse care, training, and riding. And don't forget to share this article with your fellow equestrians and horse enthusiasts to enlighten them about the rationale behind mounting a horse on its left side!
