There are times when riders get into a situation with their horse that may
result in the rider falling off and/or getting hurt. I have found that
many riders have never been taught properly a good way to dismount in the
event of an emergency. I find this valuable tool a necessity for any rider,
regardless of level of riding skill.
An emergency dismount is nothing more than being able to dismount quickly
in the event you feel you can no longer control your mount or you are
unsure what to do in the event of a disaster. I feel there is also a right
way to do this as to ensure your safety, it's not just about jumping off in
a pinch. I have used it or seen it
used in run-away situations, bucking situations...etc. I like to tell
students that the pulley rein should be tried first, but "WHEN IN
DOUBT...BAIL OUT!" It is very effective and it is one of those things you
use once you've learned it without even thinking about it.
It is best to learn it bareback first, as you have no saddle parts to get
in your way. It is also helpful to start by learning this on a longe line
with the help of a friend, trainer or instructor.
While the horse is at a walk I have them drop the reins and grab mane
hair. At this point you will bring your torso down a bit so that you can
thrust your seat upward. Then while in this position swing your right leg
over and then push off the horse using your hands and left knee. After they
have it as second nature in a walk, we then move to a trot, then a canter.
This is all done in the controlled environment of a ring, round pen and/or
lunge line.
Then we do it from the saddle. They must learn that from the
saddle(especially western), that there are now obstacles to get around such
as a horn, and stirrups. They must learn to maneuver around the horn, and
they must learn to drop the right stirrup, and then the left before they
dismount.
Now, this type of dismount does not mean you are not going to hit the
ground, however, it does prove that you will hit the ground with a lot less
pain than if you were to fall or get thrown. And if done properly your not
likely to break anything. If you practice enough you will find you can land
on your feet...or at least softly on your butt.
Once you get real good at this type of dismount you can practice it while
keeping contact with one rein as to not lose your horse either...but when
in doubt...let the horse go...he'll go home and you can walk back because
your still alive :o)
