Everything done on the left.

[Vikki89]

Is there a reason we do everything from the left, if so what is that reason? I'm sure I have been told before but can't rememer at the moment.

 

[catkin]

I think it originally comes from the military and has now become traditional.

Having said that I consider it extremely important that horses are used to having everything done from both sides - and with youngsters you have to train each side separately.

 

[LittleBlackMule]

It's so your sword doesn't get in the way!

Yes it is old cavalry tradition and absolutely pointless these days.

 

[Vikki89]

Thanks for the answers

 

[Paint Me Proud]

i thought this the other day and decided to mount from the right. Bad idea!!
I realised that I am so used to mounting from the left my co-ordination from the right was shocking and i kicked the poor horse in the bum *lol*

 

[KL93]

It's because in the military, they had their swords on their left sides so it was to keep it away from the horse. eg. mounting from the right side and they would have cut the horses bum off.

 

[Sugarplum Furry]

I think it originally comes from the military and has now become traditional.

Having said that I consider it extremely important that horses are used to having everything done from both sides - and with youngsters you have to train each side separately.

Agree with this, flippin' miltary!! And yes it's important that horses don't become one sided.
Having said that it took ages to get to approach my Exmoor from his left side. Why? Because that's the side they are hot branded on, and they are understandably nervous about having anyone close to where they were hurt. Nuts isn't it? They brand on the very side you are traditionally expected to work with them from.

 

[Vikki89]

I keep meaning to try getting on from the right but haven't tried yet