CHAPTER VII. 



BACKING. 



r I ^HE preliminary lessons in backing that is, 

 JL those given on foot may be followed at 

 any time after the horse has been put into the 

 snaffle-bridle ; but the horse cannot be taught to 

 back smoothly and lightly under the rider until 

 it has been carried as far in its training as the 

 gallop in the double-reined bridle. 



With a little care, the horse may be made to 

 go backward with action as level and regular as 

 in the forward movements, and to make turns 

 and changes of direction with the same precision 

 as if advancing. The first lessons are to be given 

 with the trainer on foot. Standing at the near- 

 side of the horse, he should grasp with his left 

 hand the snaffle-reins at even lengths under the 

 horse's chin, and with his right hand give a whip- 

 tap upon the animal's rump. As soon as an im- 

 pulse is procured, he should carry his left hand 

 towards the chest of the horse, so that the leg 



