Visual Cues:
* Inside leg: Watch the horse's inside hind leg (the leg on the same side as the direction you're turning). It should be actively reaching forward in a good, strong stride.
* Inside shoulder: The inside shoulder should be slightly lower than the outside shoulder. This indicates a good bend through the horse's body.
* Outside foreleg: The outside foreleg (the leg on the opposite side of the turn) should be more forward and sweeping, almost like a "lead" leg.
* Head and neck: The horse's head and neck should be slightly bent in the direction of the turn, but not excessively.
Feel:
* Balance: You should feel a sense of balance and stability from the horse, rather than a feeling of being "off" or "tippy".
* Effortlessness: The change should feel smooth and effortless, not forced or stiff.
General Tips:
* Practice: The more you practice lead changes, the better you'll become at feeling and seeing the correct lead.
* Focus on the inside hind leg: This is the key to a successful lead change.
* Don't overthink it: Sometimes horses will naturally fall into the correct lead, especially if you're riding in a circle or on a bend.
If you think the lead is wrong:
* Gently ask for a lead change: Use a combination of leg aids and weight to encourage the horse to shift its weight and find the correct lead.
* Don't force it: If the horse is resistant, try a different approach or come back to it later.
Remember: It's important to work with a qualified instructor to learn how to effectively execute lead changes. They can help you identify any issues and guide you in finding the best approach for you and your horse.