Do All Horses Lift Their Front Leg When They Stop Running? Unveiling the Reality

As equestrian enthusiasts, it's fascinating to explore the myths and truths about horse behavior, especially in the context of performance disciplines. One common misconception is that when horses stop running, they always lift their front leg. This article aims to debunk this myth by delving into the reality of horse movements, particularly in reining.

The Myth of Horseshoe Reining

The idea that all horses lift their front leg when stopping might stem from certain performance shows, where horses are trained to perform specific movements. In reining, a discipline that showcases the horse's agility, power, and responsiveness, horses do often exhibit dramatic stops. However, these stops do not always involve lifting the front leg.

A Spectacular Reining Championship

I recently had the privilege of attending one of the most spectacular freestyle reining horse championships, ridden by a highly skilled trainer named Gary. The music that accompanied the event was an iconic track - 'Born to Be Wild' by Steppenwolf. What made this performance unique was the way Gary interacted with his horse, leading me to delve deeper into the intricacies of horse movement and control.

Control and Coordination without Head Gear

During this thrilling performance, the trainer only rode his horse with its reins attached to the ends of the handlebars, showing a level of control and coordination that is truly exceptional. In reining, this level of control is achieved through a combination of rider skill, horse training, and understanding of cues. Riders often use subtle signals, such as a flick of the wrist or a squeeze of the leg, to guide the horse without the need for head gear. It's remarkable to witness the horse's ability to respond to these cues, showcasing the depth of their bond.

Quickest Stops - The Sliding Stopped

The run downs and sliding stops that are part of this performance are some of the quickest stops a horse can perform. These maneuvers require precise timing and coordination between the rider and the horse. During a sliding stop, the horse comes to a sudden halt, and the rider uses their upper body to brace themselves while the horse uses its hindquarters to bring itself to a stop. This technique is known as sliding. Because of the rapid deceleration, it's quite common for the horse's hindquarters to lift off the ground briefly, but the front legs do not always follow the same action.

Roll Back and Pivot Maneuvers

Another impressive part of reining is the roll back and pivot maneuvers. These require the horse to pivot on its hindquarters, rotating around its base. This is a demanding task, especially given the precision involved. Watching the horse execute this move with such grace and control is a testament to the training both the horse and rider have received.

The Impact of an Unforgettable Ride

The ride by Gary and his horse was truly unforgettable. The crowd's reaction was unlike anything I've experienced before. I was sitting in a front rail box, right next to the right side of the screens, and I could even hear my own voice in the crowd. It was palpable excitement and admiration for what both the horse and rider achieved. This performance brought together romance, skill, and the unbreakable bond between horse and rider. The crowd's reaction was a clear indication of the level of skill and artistry involved.

Personal Reflection and Future Outlook

Attending this performance, I couldn't help but wonder why Gary had decided to forego shaving for two days. It added a unique element to his appearance, making the experience even more memorable. Additionally, it highlighted the human element in equine performance - the sweat, dedication, and passion that goes into creating such an incredible show.

For me, this event reignited my passion for reining. I had been looking for a new reining horse for both myself and my son. Our current reiner had started showing signs of age, with one eye losing sight, which made his spins and left-side work less confident. The performance of this trainer and his horse reminded me of the magic of reining and the need to find a horse that can perform with the same level of agility and responsiveness.

While horse rearing is often associated with stops involving the front leg, there is much more to the reality of equine movement. Reining showcases a different set of skills, emphasizing control, coordination, and the bond between horse and rider. Whether you're watching a performance or riding a horse yourself, remember that each horse and rider combination brings their unique story to the ring.

Conclusion

So, the next time you see a horse stop, don't automatically assume it will lift its front leg. The reality is much more complex and fascinating, with each horse and each stop telling its own unique story. This experience has not only debunked the myth but also deepened my appreciation for the art and science of horse reining.