Horse terms for the beginner horse enthusiast: Part 3
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EmailThe final article in a series about horse terms for the non-horse person.
In Horse terms for the beginner horse enthusiast: Part 1, readers were able to learn about different types of horses and different disciplines they may perform in. Part 2 talked about the terms an instructor might use when telling a rider what they would like them to do while riding. Part 3 will now highlight terms used to describe the behavior a horse is exhibiting or used to explain how the horse looks or presents itself.
Buck- A leap in the air with the back arched where the hind legs come off of the ground.
Rear- A leap in the air where only the front feet come off of the ground and the back feet are planted.
Ring sour- A term used to describe a horse that does not perform well in the show ring any longer. This could possibly be due to a bad memory of something that took place in the ring, but is fine outside of the ring.
Halter broke- A horse that has very basic knowledge of wearing and walking with a halter, but nothing further.
Green broke – Used to describe a horse that is used to wearing tack and supporting a rider but is very new to riding and still learning the aids being taught.
Broke – Used to describe a horse that understands cues and responds well to them.
Bomb proof- Used to describe a horse that is broke to ride in almost any situation. Very few things will startle or rattle this horse making them very safe and consistent.
Behind the bridle or bit/ over bridled- Used to describe a horse that is tucking its head to escape the pressure of the bit in its mouth.
In front of the bit- Used to describe a horse that is pulling or putting pressure on the rider through the reins.
Collection/ collected – When the horse's frame becomes compacted by shortening the body or base of the body but does not cause the horse to arch its back.
Vices- These are bad habits or bad behavior that a horse exhibits such as chewing or cribbing.
Novice- A term used to describe a horse or rider that has minimal experience.
Action – The movement of the horse’s legs.
Michigan State University Extension believes that having a general understanding of the horse terms in Part 1-3 will give any horse enthusiast a leg up before their next lesson or horse event.
