Half Bait:
* Description: The horse's neck is slightly bent, with the inside rein slightly shorter than the outside rein, creating a slight bend in the horse's neck.
* Purpose: To encourage the horse to move its hindquarters into the direction of the bend, while maintaining a straight line of energy through the horse's body.
* Appearance: Imagine a gentle curve in the horse's neck, like a question mark, with the inner rein making a small, controlled bend.
Full Bait:
* Description: The horse's neck is fully bent, with the inside rein significantly shorter than the outside rein, creating a more pronounced bend in the horse's neck and body.
* Purpose: Used for exercises requiring a stronger bend, such as shoulder-in, haunches-in, and travers. This position encourages a more pronounced engagement of the hindquarters and a strong lateral movement.
* Appearance: The horse's neck is noticeably bent, almost forming a "C" shape.
Key points to remember:
* Both positions should be achieved through soft, consistent aids, not force. A good rider uses their seat, leg, and rein aids to create the desired bend, without pulling on the reins excessively.
* The degree of bend should be appropriate for the horse and the exercise. A young horse might need a very slight bend, while a more experienced horse can handle a greater degree of bend.
* Maintaining a "straight line of energy" is crucial in both positions. The horse's body should be balanced and engaged, with a clear, straight line from the hindquarters through the back and neck.
In essence, both "half bait" and "full bait" are tools for creating flexibility and control in the horse, allowing for a more refined and engaged movement.