Further Training 263 



strengthen important muscles of the back and loins, 

 and as a preparation for the canter and for jumping 

 it will often be found extremely useful. My ex- 

 perience goes to prove that if a horse is kind and 

 willing it is unwise to forego these benefits, which 

 are so valuable to the trainer. 



It is as well to give the first few lessons in reining 

 back on foot, the horse's head being at first held low 

 in order to lighten his quarters; if he shows any 

 marked disinclination to move, the trainer should 

 tread on each of his fore fetlocks in turn (Fillis). 

 It is not an uncommon thing to see a trainer in 

 difficulties with a young horse the first time he tries 

 to rein him back mounted, which is easily explained. 

 Not only has the horse to lift his hind legs while 

 bearing an unaccustomed weight, but this weight is 

 increased by the animal's head being held high. 



When the horse has learnt to carry himself 

 lightly at a walk and a trot he must be taught to 

 passage and turn on his hocks. It is advisable to 

 begin these exercises dismounted and to use a cane 

 as a substitute for the leg. This is diametrically 

 opposed to the teaching of Hayes, who would have 

 turning on the hind legs taught last, but I maintain 



