Understanding Self-Carriage in Horses

A set of vocabulary flashcards for understanding key concepts related to self-carrying in horses.

Self-carriage

Refers to the weight distribution from front to back of the horse, where proper balance is achieved without excessive external aids.

Forehand

The front part of the horse, where more weight (60-70%) is typically carried.

Hyperflexion

A training method where the horse's neck is excessively bent, often leading to physical stress and improper posture.

Articular processes

Structures in the spine that contribute to the horse's ability to move and carry itself effectively.

Cervical Ventral Serrated

Muscles that help support the horse's neck and assist in maintaining balance.

Rollkür

A common training method that involves stretching the horse's neck down and towards the chest, often resulting in unnatural head carriage.

Collecting

The act of raising and bringing a horse's hindquarters under its body to improve balance and self-carriage.

Weight distribution

The way a horse balances its weight between its forehand and hindquarters to achieve proper movement.

Transition exercises

Exercises that help teach the horse to switch between different gaits while maintaining balance.

Lateral movements

Techniques such as leg yields and half passes that improve lateral balance and self-carriage.