ondertreden achterbeen paard

Why is the engagement of the hind leg so important?

When the horse is used as a riding animal, it is important that it steps under with its hind leg.

Naturally, a horse carries 3/5 of its weight on the forehand and 2/5 on the hindquarters. This is easy for the horse while grazing; while grazing, the horse can move forward easily, propelling itself forward.

It becomes a different story when a rider sits on its back; then even more weight is placed on the forehand, which can easily lead to overloading. With all kinds of unpleasant consequences; the horse can, for example, become lame.

When we start training the horse, it is important that it learns to step under with its inside hind leg towards the center of gravity. In this way, the hind leg takes on more weight, relieving the forehand.

As a result, the hind leg becomes supple, strong, and flexible. The horse becomes more balanced and gains more shoulder freedom; it is now easier for the horse to carry a rider.