- Dismounting -

To dismount, take your feet out of both stirrups, put the reins and crop (if you have one) in your left hand, which you can then lean gently on the horse's neck for support if you absolutely need to. Lean forward slightly, put your right hand on the pommel of the saddle, and quietly swing your right leg over the horse's back so that you will land firmly on both feet on the near side of the horse. Be careful that you don't kick the horse in the hindquarters with your right leg as you swing it over the horse's back, and also that you do not lose your balance and lurch backwards when your feet hit the ground. If this is a problem for you, have someone be there to help you as long as you need it, but eventually learn how to do it correctly on your own.

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