Everything Horses and Livestock® Magazine Feb 2020 Vol 5 Issue 1

Everything Horses and Livestock Magazine ®

outside lead (remember, horses are usually asked to use their inside leads). A counter canter is an intentional maneuver and is not considered a mistake when asked for by the rider. Cross Fire - When a horse cross fires it means they are loping or galloping on one lead with the front legs, and the opposite lead on the back legs. Flying Lead Change - When loping a flying lead change is when a horse changes from one lead to another in mid-air between strides.

MATTHEW JOBE C BAR J RANCH WINDSOR, MO 660-537-9542 WWW.CBARJ.COM LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Correct Lead - If a horse is loping or galloping while bending or circling to the left, a left lead will be the inside lead and will be considered the correct lead. *thanks McCracken saddles for the quality steeds and Total equine for keeping them lean and muscled up, lol

These movements keep repeating until you change gate, direction, or stop. In a left lead, the left hind leg and left front leg will reach farther forward, then the legs on the right side of the horse's body. This distinction can be easily seen and can also be felt by many riders. Of course, for the right lead all the above is just opposite. Leads usually only make a difference in a horse's ability to be athletic or move well if a horse is bending or turning. If a horse is loping in a straight line it usually won’t make a difference which lead it is on unless the rider happens to have a preference. Being in the correct lead is a whole lot smoother! If you are in a circle on the incorrect lead you will get jarred and know really quickly.

Common Lead phrases:

Counter Canter - A counter canter is when a horse is asked to canter (also called a lope) in a bend or a circle on the

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