Long and low on the forehand

Long and low on the forehand

Here is my naturally gaited fox-trotting horse Lady in a long and low position. Notice that she is disengaged from behind (not stepping under the rider’s position with her hind leg). Notice that her chest muscles are collapsed, and her abdominal muscles are not lifting her back to a neutral position. She may be relaxed but is not effectively developing the top line muscles in this position. She is traveling on the forehand, and behind the bit.