OBJECTS OF LATERAL FLEXIONS. 107 



is of great importance. Equilibrium, lightness and mobility 

 depend on the flexions and on getting the horse in hand, 

 and until he has learned all this, it would be folly to ask for 

 more. It is therefore of the highest importance to make the 

 lateral flexion complete, so as to obtain extreme obedience 

 from the horse. 



^^S- 37- — Incorrect lateral flexion. 



But when we practise lateral flexion in later work 

 (changes of direction, work on two tracks, etc.), we ought to 

 content ourselves with a very slight lateral flexion of the 

 neck,* which like the head, should always be well placed. 

 We can understand that a too strongly accentuated flexion 

 checks the effect of propulsion by throwing all the weight 

 on the outward shoulder. 



* As long as the jaws work we have lightness, and the slightest indication is 

 -sufficient for changes of direction. 



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