RIDING 129 



they may be caught hold of and drawn up quickly on any 

 sudden emergency ; the loose reins are to hang between 

 those in use. 



Using both Hands. — Take the bridoon reins between the 

 second and third, and the curb reins between the third and 

 fourth jSngers of each hand, each rein having an equal 

 bearing on the horse's mouth ; the hands are to be held 

 about six inches apart, with the wrists rounded outwards, 

 and the thumbs pressing firmly upon the reins, the elbows 

 well down, and held near to the sides, the wliip held as 

 directed above. 



A tight rein should always be avoided, because if he 

 carries his head low it tends to deaden his mouth, and 

 teaches him the bad habit of depending upon the bridle for 

 support ; in which case he always goes heavily in hand, and 

 on his shoulders. The horse should at all times be taught 

 to go on his haunches. 



If the horse naturally carries his head well, it is better 

 to ride him with a light hand, only just feeling his mouth. 



Turning. — In the turn either to the right or left the 

 reins must be held quite evenly, so that the horse may be 

 immediately made to feel the aid of the rider's hands ; he 

 (the rider) must then have a double feeling on the inward 

 rein, also retaining a steady feeling on the outward ; the 

 horse being kept up to the hand by a pressure of both legs, 

 the outward leg being the stronger. 



Reining Back. — The rider should frequently practise 

 reining back, which is of the utmost service both to himself 

 and his horse ; by it the rider's hand is rendered hrm and 

 materially strengthened, and the pliancy of wrist so essential 

 to the complete management of the horse is achieved, like- 

 wise causing the body of the rider to be well throv/n back 

 and his chest ex]3anded, thus forcing and preserving an 

 erect position in the saddle. Also, the carriage of the horse 

 becomes greatly improved, his head is maintained in its 

 correct position, and he is compelled to work correctly on 

 his haunches. 



In 'reining back,' the horseman requires a light and 

 steady feeling of both reins, a pressure of both legs, so as to 

 raise his horse's forehand and keep his haunches well under 

 him, at the same time easing the reins, and feeling them 

 again after every step. 



Stopping, — JSIone are thoroughly taught until quite au 



d 



