Getting on
Eventually your horse that will stand quietly while you’re on the mounting block — once this happens consistently, it’s time to get on. “Don’t just hop straight on though,” says Richard. “Instead, check how rooted he is. From the ground or mounting block, push and pull on his saddle from side to side, jump up and down a little and put your foot in the stirrup as if you’re about to mount, then take it out again. He shouldn’t move an inch, but stay with all four feet planted. If he does take a step in any direction, move him quickly around you in a circle.” Your horse will soon decide that it’s much less hassle to stand still. Don’t get frustrated with him — it’s all good learning. You just need to be ready to make quick corrections. “Once he’s rooted, get on,” says Richard. “Don’t take up a contact as you’re not forcing him to stand — it has to be his choice. Be gentle when you mount as it should be a nice experience for him. I like to put my right hand on the saddle on the offside, as this helps to hold it stable. If your horse stands correctly, get off and finish the session.” Finishing is a big reward and one your horse will remember. If he moves then get off and do more groundwork with him in a circle or along the wall, lightly using the whip as before to reinforce to him what the desired behaviour is. Then try again. “Once he’s mastered the moving towards the whip technique it’s something to keep in your toolbox for when you next need it,” says Richard. “In an exciting situation, you’ll be able to use the whip to calm things down.” With practise he’ll be a mounting pro.