Lead change is a term used to describe when a horse changes his leading leg while in motion. It is a difficult maneuver, requiring a great deal of skill and timing from the rider, and is used in a variety of disciplines, from dressage to show jumping to racing. Lead changes can be made over fences, on the flat, or even at the lope or canter. Lead changes are also known as “flying changes” because the horse must cross his legs in mid-air to make the change.
Why is Lead Change Important?
Lead change is an important skill for a horse to learn, as it helps to ensure the horse is balanced and able to move in the correct direction. Lead changes also help to prevent injury by preventing the horse from becoming locked into a one-sided gait. A well-executed lead change will also help the horse move more evenly and smoothly, making him look better and be more comfortable.
What Does a Jockey Do to Make a Horse Change Leads?
Making a horse change leads is a difficult feat, and it takes a great deal of skill and timing from the jockey. The jockey must be able to anticipate when the horse is ready to make the change, and then provide the correct cues to get the horse to move his legs in the correct order.
Cues for Lead Change
The jockey must give the horse cues to make the lead change. The most common cues are:
- Leg Cue – The jockey will use his inside leg to push the horse into the change.
- Voice Cue – The jockey will use verbal cues such as “whoa” or “ready” to encourage the horse to make the change.
- Rein Cue – The jockey will use the reins to guide the horse’s head, neck, and shoulders in the direction of the change.
- Body Position – The jockey must have a good, balanced body position to help the horse make the change.
Timing of Lead Change
The timing of the lead change is critical. The jockey must be able to anticipate when the horse is ready to make the change, and then provide the correct cues to get the horse to move his legs in the correct order. The horse must cross his legs in mid-air to make the change, and this can be done at any point during the stride. The jockey must be able to time the cues perfectly to ensure the horse does not become unbalanced or uncomfortable.
Training for Lead Change
Lead change is a difficult maneuver, and it can take a lot of time and practice for a horse and rider to master it. The jockey and horse should begin by practicing lead changes on the flat and then progress to the canter and eventually to the jump. The jockey should start with small jumps and gradually increase the height and difficulty of the jumps as the horse and rider become more comfortable and proficient at the lead change.
Common Mistakes with Lead Change
There are several mistakes that jockeys and horses can make when attempting a lead change:
- Timing – If the jockey is too slow or too early with the cues, the horse will not make the correct lead change.
- Balance – The horse must be balanced and in the correct position to make the change. If the jockey does not have a good body position, the horse will not be able to make the change.
- Preparation – The jockey must be prepared for the lead change and ready to give the cues at the right time. If the jockey is not prepared, the horse will not make the change.
Importance of Practice
Lead change is a difficult skill to master, and it takes a lot of practice and patience for both the jockey and the horse. The jockey must focus on the timing of the cues and the horse must be able to respond to the cues in order for the lead change to be successful. Once the jockey and horse have mastered the lead change, it will become a smoother and more efficient maneuver, which will help the horse look better and be more comfortable.
Tips for Making a Lead Change
Here are some tips for making a successful lead change:
- Practice – Practice makes perfect! Start slow and work up to a faster tempo.
- Timing – Timing is key! Make sure the jockey is giving the cues at the right moment.
- Balance – Make sure the jockey has a good body position to help the horse make the change.
- Preparation – The jockey must be prepared for the lead change and ready to give the cues.
Conclusion
Lead change is an important skill for a horse to learn, and it takes a great deal of skill and timing from the jockey to make the change successful. The jockey must give the horse cues to make the lead change, and must have a good body position and good timing to ensure the horse does not become unbalanced or uncomfortable. With practice and patience, the jockey and horse can become proficient at lead changes and use them in a variety of disciplines.