Canter leads and "on the bit"

[czar]

I ahve heard these expressions befor, but i don't know how to tell whether you are on the right lead or the wrong one! I kinda know about being "on the bit", but I am not sure! Please help!

CZAR

[random2]

Sometimes you can just tell. Do not push yourself, just go with the flow. Pretty soon you will be able to feel the difference.

[czar]

Ok then - the subject says it all LOL - please help - I don't understand how to tell about canter leads - I know about the on the bit thing now though LOL! Thanks - bye!

[Edited by czar on 8th Jun 2000 at 07:02 PM]

[Kaz]

Hi, In canter the leading leg is the last leg to land on the ground. It is the one that stretches out so it goes forward more than the other one. If you look at the horses shoulders one should be more forward than the other, once you get to know it better you should be able to tell without looking down. Also being on the wrong leg usually feels wrong and inbalanced.
On the right rein the right leg should be leading and on the left rein the left leg should be leading.

Hope you understand!
Karen

[fionahogg]

a horse is on the bit when he is relaxed in the back and jaw, and moving forwards into the contact with active hindquarters. the poll should be the highest point (more noticeable in an advanced outline - novice outline should be longer and lower so the poll won't be so high). the forehand should be elevated with more weight on the quarters. as a result of this the horse's back should be rounded (as opposed to hollow) and the head should be vertical to the ground. the horse is not on the bit if the head is in but he's not working forwards and he's on the forehand. hope this makes sense!!
fiona :-)

[Somethingroyal]

If you are going in a circle then the horse should be leading with his inside leg. Everyone else explained it pretty well:)