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# Tip/Quote of the Day # 3803
- URL: https://www.myvirtualeventingcoach.com/eventing-tip-quote-3803-2/
- Published: 2023-12-11T03:28:00.000Z
- Updated: 2023-12-11T03:28:03.000Z
- Author: Lesley Stevenson
- Tags: Get your FREE daily tip here!, #Import 2026-02-10 03:43

Any excessive closing of knees or thighs takes the rider's lower leg off of the horse. It is more correct to wrap the *entire* leg around the horse for half halts and downward transitions - as if giving the horse a *hug* with your legs. This encourages the horse to keep the hind legs stepping under in the downward transition, and invites the horse to keep their back up as well. A tight upper leg will stop the horse, but it will tend to make them stiffen their back and stop their hind legs. Almost as much as pulling on the reins.