Mounting and Dismounting
For mounting, one important thing to remember is make sure that the horse is squared under himself. This way it will prevent the horse from going off balance, causing you to fall. To make it easier on yourself, locate a mounting block. ALWAYS before mounting your horse, check the girth. Tighten it as much a you can, but still being able to fit two fingers under the girth. Calmly step up on the block, grabbing the reins so that they are tight, but not causing the horse any discomfort. Place this hand (left) on to the withers of the horse. Then place your left foot into the stirrup, bringing your knee to the side of the horse. With a quick, but steady motion, place your right hand onto the cantle and rise by using your legs and arms to push yourself up. Bring the right foot beside the left and move you right hand to the pommel. Then swing your right leg over, knee bend making sure to not touch the horse. Touching him may cause him to spook. Sink down unto the saddle lightly. Slamming your body down into the saddle will hurt the horse. Place your right foot into the right stirrup and take both reins into your hands
Dismounting, the rider places the reins into the left hand and places that hand on the withers of the horse. Place the right hand on the pommel and kick your right foot out of the stirrup. Rise up slowly bringing your right leg over the horse, just like you did for the dismount. Again not touching him. Place the right foot by the left with the left knee on the saddle. Your body should be leaning over the back of the horse slightly. Place your weight on your hands, kicking the left foot out and slowly decent to the ground.