LOCOMOTION. 



623 



the fast trot may reach from eight to twelve metres per sec- 

 ond. 



The Qallop. — The gallop may be regarded as a series of 



Fig. 473. — Movements of fore-limbs of horse (Colin). While one fore-leg is describing 

 the movements figured above the other acts as a support. While the right fore- 

 foot describes the arc gh, the left shoulder describes the arc a' h' c', owing to the 

 impulse from extension of the hind legs. The center of gravity is advanced from 

 m to n, the left leg in one complete step occupying the six positions indicated at 

 abode/. 



jumps in which the hind-legs take the greater part, though as 

 in all gaits the fore-legs are not only supporters but propellers. 



Fig. 473.— Various positions of the limbs in the trot (Colin). 



In the perfect gallop only two strokes of the feet are heard; in 

 the canter or slow gallop four, in the ordinary gallop three. 

 According as the one or other hind-leg is extended farthest 

 behind the body the gaUop is termed right-handed or left- 

 handed. 



