Horse Working: Understanding the Differences Between "Working" and "Behind the Vertical"
The terms "horse working" and "behind the vertical" are commonly used in the equestrian world, often causing confusion among riders of all levels. Understanding the subtle (and sometimes significant) differences between these concepts is crucial for improving your riding and ensuring the well-being of your horse. This article will delve into these terms, clarifying their meanings and exploring the implications for both horse and rider.
What Does "Horse Working" Mean?
"Horse working" is a broad term encompassing any activity that involves a horse's exertion of energy and engagement of its muscles. This includes everything from leisurely trail rides to intense dressage movements. The key is that the horse is actively engaged in the task at hand, whether it's carrying a rider, pulling a carriage, or participating in a competitive event. Effective "horse working" prioritizes the horse's comfort and well-being, ensuring that the work is appropriate for their age, fitness level, and training stage. It’s about building strength, suppleness, and coordination in a balanced and harmonious way.
What Does "Behind the Vertical" Mean?
"Behind the vertical" refers to a specific postural fault where the horse's hindquarters are positioned behind the perpendicular line dropping from their hip. This posture often manifests as a hollowing of the back, a dropped croup, and a general lack of engagement in the hindquarters. It's not a desired position for several reasons:
- Increased Strain on Joints and Muscles: When a horse is consistently behind the vertical, the weight is placed disproportionately on their forehand, leading to strain on their front legs, shoulders, and back. This can contribute to lameness and other injuries over time.
- Reduced Balance and Agility: The lack of hindquarter engagement hampers the horse's ability to balance, maneuver, and execute movements smoothly and efficiently.
- Impaired Performance: In disciplines like dressage, jumping, and even trail riding, a horse working behind the vertical will have difficulty performing at their best.
Why is "Behind the Vertical" Considered a Problem?
This posture significantly impacts the horse's overall biomechanics. Think of it like a seesaw: if the weight is too far back, the front end is overloaded. This throws off the natural balance and coordination of the horse's body, potentially leading to various issues. The horse may appear sluggish, struggle with transitions, and have difficulty collecting or engaging its hindquarters. It can lead to a vicious cycle, where the rider tries to correct it through stronger aids, potentially further exacerbating the problem.
How Can I Tell if My Horse is Working Behind the Vertical?
Observe your horse from the side. Imagine a vertical line dropping from the point of their hip. If their hindquarters are significantly behind that line, they are working behind the vertical. Other indicators include a hollow or dipped back, a dropped croup, and a tendency to over-reach with their forelegs.
How Can I Help My Horse Work Correctly?
This is best addressed with the guidance of a qualified riding instructor. They can assess your horse's conformation, your riding style, and identify the underlying causes of the problem. Common solutions often involve:
- Improving rider posture and aids: Ensuring the rider is balanced and using their aids correctly to encourage the horse to engage its hindquarters.
- Strengthening core muscles: Targeted exercises can improve the horse's core strength, aiding in better balance and posture.
- Stretching exercises: Stretching can help improve flexibility and release tension in the back muscles.
- Appropriate warm-up: Thorough warm-up is essential for preparing the horse's muscles and joints for work.
In summary, "horse working" encompasses a wide range of activities. However, "behind the vertical" describes a specific postural issue that should be addressed with professional guidance to maintain your horse's health and optimize their performance. Remember that a well-trained, properly ridden horse should work in balance, with their weight distributed evenly over their body.
