STANDING STILL WHILE MOUNTING - MEREDITH HODGES - CINDY K ROBERTS

• It starts with good nutrition and being fed on schedule to reduce anxiety.
• Ground training is essential using a logical approach.
• Begin mounting in the round pen first - using a mounting block.
• Desensitize your mule with gentle strokes to the body to learn his sensitive areas.
• Start with a mounting block to eliminate pulling on the saddle.
• Have an assistant work with you for safety reasons.
• Sit quietly for a minute before walking on after mounting.
• Train your mule to understand the command "WHOA."
• Train your mule to understand the command "STAND" when you are ready to mount him.
• Use the reward system to let him know he is doing good.
• Balance your weight when stepping up into the saddle and stepping down.
• English riders - remove both feet from stirrups when dismounting.
• Western riders position your foot in the left stirrup to eliminate getting hung up.
• Ride in a saddle that is comfortable for your mule and a proper fit for you the rider. This will eliminate potential hazards.

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