Moving the forehand

Goal

Teach the horse to move its forelegs and shoulders a step sideways on a light request.

Before you start

• The horse leads, halts and respects your space

What you need

• Halter and lead rope

Step by step

1. Stand at the shoulder, to the side of the horse.
2. Ask with a light indication or touch at the shoulder to yield sideways.
3. Release the aid the moment the forehand steps a step across.
4. Reward the step and ask only one or two steps at a time.
5. Practise equally to both sides.

The horse's body language

A calm sideways step with the forelegs is the aim. Bracing or throwing the head up means ask more lightly and give more time.

Common mistakes

• Asking too much at once
• Pushing on after the first step
• Only practising to one side

Safety

• Stay out of the kick zone and work from the side.
• Use light aids; never hit or push hard.

Stop at once if

• The horse strikes, threatens or becomes tense
• The horse walks off unsettled

Supervision

This exercise relies on light pressure and an immediate release. Young riders should do it with guidance.

More about this

Moving the forehand is part of teaching the horse to move calmly away from you and respect your space. It is also useful preparation for lunging.

Discover more