Why do you mount a horse on the left side?

Mounting a horse from the left side is a longstanding tradition that dates back centuries. There are several reasons why mounting from the left side has become the standard practice.

One reason for mounting a horse from the left side is practicality. Historically, horses were often used for transportation or work, such as plowing fields or carrying heavy loads. When a rider mounted a horse from the left side, it allowed them to hold their weapon, such as a sword, with their right hand. This was important for knights and soldiers who needed to be prepared to defend themselves at all times while riding.

Another reason for mounting from the left side has to do with horse training. Horses are typically trained to be mounted from the left side, so they become accustomed to the rider approaching from that direction. This can help prevent the horse from becoming spooked or unsettled by sudden movements or unexpected approaches.

In addition to practical and training reasons, there are also some cultural and historical reasons for mounting a horse from the left side. For example, in many cultures, the left side is considered the “proper” or “respectful” side, while the right side is considered the “impolite” or “disrespectful” side. This cultural tradition may have influenced the practice of mounting horses from the left side.

Despite the longstanding tradition of mounting a horse from the left side, it is important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to horseback riding. Some riders may choose to mount from the right side, or may switch sides depending on the situation. Ultimately, the most important thing is to be safe and comfortable while riding, regardless of which side you choose to mount from.

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