The horse being now able to be mounted, the following exercises may be undertaken:
The horses are taken into the riding-hall, if available, and the riders instructed to work without regard to distances. It is a bad plan to work in groups, especially with young horses, as they soon become accustomed to remaining in ranks and refuse to leave.
The forward movement, as has been stated, is the most important lesson in training, and it is continually taught during the entire course of instruction.
The Walk.—To take the walk from the halt, both legs should be made to be felt, gradually increasing their intensity until the setting in motion is produced. The fingers and wrists give, to allow the neck to stretch out. The horse should be set in motion in the direction of his axis by symmetrical use of the aids. The movement should be smooth, but without hesitancy.
In order to keep the start from being sudden, the energy displayed in the use of the leg should conform to the degree of sensitiveness of the horse. The movement can be kept from being hesitatingly performed by progressively, but without hesitancy, using such force as the legs should have, and by giving the reins with the fingers and wrist at the precise moment the neck tries to stretch out.
The Trot.—This is the most advantageous gait to take during the first lessons, because:
1. It starts the horse straight ahead and helps to bring him in hand.
2. Horses are less restless at this gait.
3. It is a natural pace.
4. It is a good suppling exercise for the horse.