Page:Notes on equitation and horse training.djvu/67

Rh horse to pass from one set (position) to the other easily and while advancing.

Two-track work.—Two-track work at a slow trot on the diagonal of the hall is another method of suppling the hind quarters and bringing them under; it is an excellent preliminary to the gallop lead.

Halts, half-halts, and backing.—When the horse moves freely and begins to be balanced and regular in both gaits, the walk and trot, we must take up the elements of the assemble, which is the gather perfected by bringing the hind legs under.

We begin by numerous halts, the action of the legs always preceding the action of the hand, and by this means alone the hind legs are gradually brought toward the center. If at the moment of halting the horse is contracted and endeavors to bore on the hand, the rider must keep up his action and exact a step or two backward in order to overcome all resistance. He must then promptly move the horse to the front again to avoid his sitting down on the haunches.

Half-halts are made according to the same principles, but the opposition of the hand is less marked than in halts. If the horse proves to be obedient, loosen the fingers and extend him; if, on the contrary, he resists the half-halt, keep up the action of the aids to the halt or even to backing.