290 



EQUESTRIANISM. 



the stirrups, as the play of the ankle-joint gives more elasticity to 

 the support. But in galloping or leaping it is best to "drive the. 

 feet home," and carry the stirrups in the hollow of the foot. We 

 consider the wooden stirrup in common- use in this country to be 

 the safest and best. 



The main office of the stirrups is to rest the legs, while at the 

 same time they assist in maintaining a proper position. But in case 

 of any sudden start, the knees and thighs should be at once perform- 

 ing their duty of grasping the saddle. They cannot do this if the 



Fig. 356.— A Good Model of Riding Horse. - 



weight is thrown too much y upon the feet. It is also important to 

 learn how to stand in the stirrups while the horse is in motion, turn- 

 ing so as to look to the rear, to throw the weight first on one foot 

 and then on the other, and to assume every pdssible position rapidly 

 and easily ; for all this adds to security, freedom, and grace in the 

 seat. 



The following is the correct manner of mounting by the aid of 

 the stirrups : First take the reins in your left hand just over the' 

 horse's withers. Stand with your right side to the horse, not too 



