Article: The girth splits into 2 buckles at each end, and you have three billets (straps with sizing holes) to choose from on each side of the saddle. In most cases, riders buckle the girth to the first and third billets, leaving the second (middle) billet unused. This comes down to personal preference (for both you and the horse), however. The girth attaches to the billets like a standard leather belt buckle. Feed a billet into a buckle, slide the buckle's peg through the appropriate hole in the billet, and feed the billet underneath the outer edge of the buckle. If you're using a square pad with loops, feed the first billet on each side through the loop to help secure the pad and saddle together. Walk around the front of the horse to its left side, making sure it is aware of your movements. Carefully reach under the horse to grasp the loose end of the girth, then bring it up to the billets on the left side. Cinch up the girth until it is against the horse's underside, then buckle it in place. The girth should be secure around the horse, but not too tight. You should be able to slide your hand between horse and girth, but it shouldn't be dangling free. If anything, make the girth a little loose nowyou can tighten it further once you mount the horse. Free the stirrups so they hang down on each side. Then, put a mounting block in place (if you need one) on the horse's left side, secure your left foot in the left-side stirrup, grab the pommel, swing your right leg and body up over the horse, gently seat yourself in the saddle, and place your right foot in the other stirrup. Make sure the horse remains aware and calm as you mount it. Until you have a lot of experience saddling a horse, this is easier with a helper. While you're mounted, let them check the girth (by making sure they can just barely slide their hand between it and the horse's underside) and adjust the buckles as needed. With experience, you can tell if the girth is tight enough by feeling it from the side, and adjust the buckles if needed while mounted.
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Buckle the girth to the billets on the horse's right side. Run the girth beneath the horse and fasten it on the left side. Drop the stirrups and mount the horse. Recheck the girth to see if it needs tightening.