Front and Back

One of the most important aspects of the horse to appreciate from a riding point of view is the division between forehand and hindquarters. The horse needs to use the large muscles in his hindquarters to provide most of the energy or impulsion for movement.

An untrained or lazy horse will try and carry most of his and the riders weight on his forelegs as it involves less effort on his part. With weight on the forehand it is very difficult to produce paces that are not flat and lacking impulsion (energy). Rebalancing exercises like half halts and many changes of pace can help to persuade the horse to use his hindquarters more.

Forehand/Haunches

Below are some of the most commonly refered to 'points' of the horse.

Points of the Horse

Next - how the horse develops.

Comments

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Fred 17th Jun 01

Many of us new to riding come across a lazy horse.
It may not be our job to re-train the horse we are riding, but on hacks a little understanding and working with the horse can make your time even more enjoyable, it's the same in the schooling ring. It's an achievment in its self, when you understand and work with the horse that is renown for being lazy, and can get on with your work.

Patience and learning bring their rewards, happy rider and horse.

Fred

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