197. The instructor causes the reins to be dropped and retaken by the commands DROP REINS and REINS.
At the first command, the trooper drops the reins behind the pommel and lets the hands fall by the side.
The reins are dropped as an exceptional measure, and always with precaution against accident.
198. Position of the trooper, or attention (mounted): The position described below should be considered a standard toward which all troopers should gradually approximate.
The buttocks bearing equally upon and well forward in the middle of the saddle.
The thighs turned without constraint upon their flat side, clasping the horse evenly and stretched only by their own weight and that of the lower legs.
The knees bent and flexible.
The lower legs falling naturally, the calves in contact with the horse without pressure, the toes dropping naturally when the trooper is without stirrups.
The back supple and never hollowed.
The upper part of the body easy, free, and erect.