For centuries, the bond between humans and horses has been a source of wonder and admiration. Whether ridden for work, recreation, therapy, or sports, horses provide an avenue for connection and exploration. One often overlooked aspect of this relationship is the process of mounting the horse. While able-bodied & experienced riders don’t give mounting a horse a second thought, it can be a daunting task for new riders, children, and/or those with differing mobility levels. So, what is the best way for non-experts to mount a horse?

Horse Mounting Aids

With the agility, strength, and coordination it requires, successfully mounting a horse can be considered an art form. For those not familiar or able to mount a horse using just the saddle, different kinds of horse mounting aids have been used through the years. Perhaps the most simple horse-mounting aid is just a helping hand.

Experienced riders can help others mount a horse by offering a boost with their hands or acting as a steady support to grab onto. Other additions like a step stool or bench can be used to add some height to make mounting the horse easier. Similarly, horse mounting blocks, which are a series of three or so steps, have been used.

While these aids make it easier for less experienced riders to mount horses, they still encounter one problem: they do not make horse riding more accessible to a wider variety of people. While a boost from an experienced bystander might help a child onto a horse, or a step stool help a new rider, individuals with limited mobility and/or those use wheelchairs or other mobility devices will not be able to safely and comfortably mount a horse. Because equine-assisted therapy has been found to have a profound positive effect, it is important that everyone of all ability levels is able to partake in horseback riding.

If the aids mentioned above are not sufficient when it comes to allowing all individuals to mount a horse–what is?

Horse Mounting Ramps–the Ideal Solution

Horse mounting ramps are the safest and most accessible way for individuals of all mobility levels to mount a horse. These structures consist of a ramp leading up to a platform from where the horse will be mounted. The ramp section allows those using wheelchairs, scooters, crutches, or other mobility devices to safely reach the platform to mount the horse. The ramp is also helpful for those who do not use mobility devices yet have difficulty climbing stairs. Once the individual is on the mounting platform, at a level much closer to the mounting point of the horse,it is much easer to assist them on and off of the horse so they can enjoy a recreational or therapeutic riding experience.

Permanent Wood-Built or Portable Metal

When finding a horse mounting ramp for your location, you’ll find that the majority of ramp options are either static ramps built out of wood or portable ramps constructed from metal. The design of wooden ramps varies greatly depending on who will be constructing the ramp or the building plans used. After constructed, the wooden ramps will remain in place and cannot be stored or easily moved. Metal ramps, on the other hand, are most oftenly portable so they can be moved around the location as needed and stored more easily.

In general, wood horse mounting ramps:

Are the least expensive.
Cannot be moved or stored once built.
Are not non-slip unless slip prevention solutions are added.
Prone to damage from nature’s elements. The wood can grow mold and mildew due to moisture and begin to crack and chip after extended use and exposure to environmental elements.

HandiRamp’s Horse Mounting Ramp, on the other hand:

Is constructed of hard-wearing aluminum so they will not rust or corrode even when exposed to nature’s elements for extended periods.
Will not become damaged from extended use like wood will.
Has a patented non-slip surface to prevent slips and falls along the ramp and platform.
Is easy to install and portable so they can be moved and stored as needed.

What are the Benefits of a Horse Mounting Ramp?

When there are other horse mounting aids available, what actually makes a horse mounting ramp the ideal solution for mounting and dismounting horses? While the financial investment is an aspect to consider, the substantial benefits of employing a horse mounting ramp makes the investment worthwhile.

1. Accessibility for All

As mentioned earlier, horse mounting ramps make it significantly easier and safer for not only those using mobility devices, but people of all abilities to mount and dismount a horse. Individuals with disabilities, elderly riders, children, or those recovering from injuries can experience the joy of horseback riding without straining themselves during mounting. For any facility offering equine-assisted therapy, a horse mounting ramp is a necessity. Even without therapeutic services, having a horse mounting ramp at your location ensures that horseback riding remains a viable activity for a diverse range of people.

2. Increased Safety

Safety is paramount when working with horses. Using a horse mounting ramp minimizes the risk of accidents that can occur during mounting, such as falls or injuries caused by sudden movements. A ramp and stable platform ensures a controlled and secure mounting process and a horse that’s less prone to being spooked. Because HandiRamp’s Horse Mounting Ramps feature our patented raised button non-slip surface, slips and falls are prevented in any direction on the ramp and platform. The raised traction buttons dispel up to an inch of water or debris when stepped on, ensuring safe usage even when the ramp is exposed to water, sleet, mud, or other debris.

3. Versatility

The HandiRamp horse mounting ramp can be transported in the back of a typical pickup truck and configured and installed anywhere at your location by two people. The feet of the platform and ramps can be slightly adjusted to account for uneven ground outdoors. It can also be moved as needed to serve different areas of your location. Whether you’re doing some renovations or moving locations entirely, the horse mounting ramp can be easily disassembled, stored, and transported where it is needed.

4. Reduced Strain on Horses

Because mounting a horse traditionally entails pulling on the saddle and the horse’s back, it can cause discomfort and potential injury to the horse when done by inexperienced riders. Horse mounting ramps allow riders to approach the horse closer at the level of the saddle, eliminating strain and reducing the risk of back or spine injuries for the horse.

5. Positive Psychological Impact

Horses are intuitive creatures that can sense their rider’s emotions. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, traditional horse mounting by inexperienced rides can cause discomfort and injury to the horse. Using a mounting ramp creates a more relaxed and positive atmosphere during the mounting process that translates to a more pleasant riding experience for both the rider and the horse. This is especially crucial when facilitating equine-assisted therapy.

6. Preserving Tack and Gear

Lastly, the use of a horse mounting ramp reduces the wear and tear on saddles and tack that can occur when riders scramble to mount. This can prolong the lifespan of equipment and save a considerable amount of money in the long run.

Fostering the Relationship Between Horses and Humans

The horse mounting ramp is a prime example of how technology can enhance the timeless connection between humans and horses. HandiRamp’s horse mounting ramp not only makes horseback riding accessible to a wider range of individuals but it also prioritizes the safety and well-being of both riders and horses. By incorporating a horse mounting ramp into your riding routine, you can embark on a journey of improved accessibility, safety, and enjoyment in the equestrian world. Click here to learn more about the specifications of HandiRamp’s horse mounting ramp, or you can give one of our friendly ramp experts a call at 800-876-7267 with any questions or inquiries you have. Let us ensure that the bond between horses and riders is preserved at your location by prioritizing safety and accessibility with a horse mounting ramp.

Accessibility, Horse Mounting, Safety

The Benefits of Using a Horse Mounting Ramp