Mike Clinton
Introduction: Origins of the Left-Side Mounting Tradition
Mounting a horse is a fundamental skill for anyone who wants to ride. Despite the fact that horses come in all shapes and sizes, and that there are many different ways to ride them, there is one thing that nearly everyone agrees on: you should get on the horse from the left side. Have you ever wondered why this tradition exists? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the left-side mounting tradition, including the historical, practical, and cultural factors that have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Historical Context: Why the Left Side is the "Correct" Side
The left-side mounting tradition dates back at least several hundred years, and is likely rooted in the practicalities of horse riding in the past. In medieval times, soldiers rode horses into battle, and would often wear heavy armor that made it difficult to mount from the right side. By mounting from the left side, the rider could keep his sword arm free and ready for action. Additionally, horses were often led by a groom or squire on the left side, so it made sense to mount from the same side in order to avoid getting in their way. Over time, this habit became a convention, and was reinforced by the fact that many equestrian manuals and traditions prescribed left-side mounting as the "correct" way to do it.