How to Mount a Pony
A pony is a small horse that is usually no taller than 58 inches (147 centimeters) tall [source: Britannica]. There are many different breeds of ponies, each with its own individual characteristics and temperament [source: RSPCA]. Before riding a pony you must know how to get on, or mount, it. We will now tell you how to mount a pony.
- Check the pony's girth before you start to mount it.
- Stand on the left side of the pony. Although you can mount a pony from either the right or left side, you usually mount the pony from the left side. To help reduce the strain on the pony while pulling it and mounting, a mounting block is sometimes used. The block will raise you about 18 inches (46 centimeters) off the ground and make mounting easier.
- Hold the reins with your left hand, and turn the left stirrup clockwise in order to bring it round toward you.
- Put your left foot into the stirrup while holding the reins tightly. You can pull the stirrup onto your foot with your right hand.
- With your right hand, get a grip on the saddle at the back and push yourself up with your right leg.
- Lift yourself up and swing your right leg over the saddle, removing your right hand from the back of the saddle as your leg rises.
- Lower yourself gently onto the saddle, while maintaining a grip on the reins.
- Put your right foot into the stirrup [source: Equine World].