54 



RIDING AND TRAINING SADDLE-HORSES. 



horse, the whole weight being supported by the two arms. 

 Drop gently to the ground at the shoulder of the horse. 

 This may be done at the gallop, by avoiding the momen- 

 tary rest and coming down ]3repared to take a few steps 

 with the horse, after which the holds upon the mane and 

 pommel should be released. 



General Exercises. — 1. From the seat, grasping 

 each side of the fore-part of the saddle, bear the weight 

 of the body upon the extended arms, turning the balanced 

 body first one way and then the other. 



2. From the seat, grasping each side of the fore-part 

 of the saddle, throw the body forward upon the slightly 

 bent arms towards the neck of the horse ; and throwing 

 up the legs in rear, cross them, and come into the saddle 

 faced to the rear. 



3. From this position, place the palms of the hands 

 upon the rump of the horse, and performing a move- 

 ment similar to the above, come into the saddle faced to 

 the front. 



