THE POSITION OF THE BODY 63 



but with careful training it can be prevented to a 

 very great extent. 



When it does happen it is impossible to pre- 

 vent being " left behind." The reason is, that 

 we should only throw our bodies forward just 

 on the moment of the expected thrust, or in 



Sketch No. 18 



The correct position for landing over a fence in steeplechasing. 

 Note that there is no weight on the horse's loins, and his head 

 is absolutely free, also that the reins are the right length to 

 continue controlling the horse, directly he has landed. 



The jar of impact is absorbed in the muscles of the knee joint. 



other words, as the horse's hind legs meet the 

 ground just before he " takes off." Consequently 

 if he "takes off" unexpectedly, the thrust has 

 occurred before our bodies are in a position to 

 meet it, and there is nothing for it but the body 

 to be left behind, or, what is apparently " leaning 

 back." It is not leaning back at all in reality, 



