66 



HINTS ON HORSES 



A good rider does not ride more than his 

 own weight. He sits down close to the 

 saddle, and his thighs practically become part 

 of the horse. He sways his body from the 

 loins, conforming to the movements of the 

 horse, so as to keep the centre of gravity 

 of man and horse combined in the most 

 suitable place. 



E.g. in rising at a fence he leans slightly 

 forward. The extra weight forward gives 

 momentum. The relief of weight behind 

 gives full opportunity to the propelling force 

 of the hind-quarters. Whereas in descending 

 to the ground he leans his body back, thereby 

 allowing the forehand to alight without im- 

 pediment. 



