Why the Leg Yield Matters in Classical Training

Leg-yield is one of the first lateral exercises we teach the horse to move away from the rider’s leg into the arena. As a preparation for this exercise, the horse should already be familiar with shoulder-in to the wall (i.e. counter shoulder-in). Properly executed leg-yield improves the horse’s balance and muscular suppleness. In addition to developing suppleness, sensitivity to the aids, and balance, it also helps the rider better understand how to control individual parts of the horse's body.

Simply put, if the rider cannot guide the horse through a balanced leg-yield, they will not succeed in more advanced movements such as travers, half-pass, or full lateral steps. The same imbalances that hinder leg-yield will also become apparent in pirouettes and other exercises.

Where and How to Practise Leg-Yield

Leg-yield can be practised along the wall, from the centerline toward the wall, from the wall toward the centerline, on the diagonal, or on a circle. The wall can serve as a visual and physical aid for beginners, but moving off the wall later challenges the rider’s accuracy and encourages clearer communication through the aids.

Practical Example: Leg-Yield Left from the Wall to the Centerline

1. Ride onto the centerline and slightly flex the horse to the right (i.e., bend him away from the direction of travel).

2. The right (outside) leg is positioned slightly behind the girth and applies light pressure to guide the horse sideways.

3. The left leg maintains the horse’s balance and rhythm, preventing him from falling through the shoulder or losing straightness.

4. The rider’s weight remains centered in the saddle and moves harmoniously with the horse, maintaining balance through symmetrical seat bone contact.

5. The rider must never force the horse sideways using the rein or by twisting the horse’s neck. Doing so disrupts the horse’s balance, movement, and correct muscle engagement.

Key Points to Watch

• Maintain a consistent rhythm. The pressure of the outside leg, from which the horse yields, influences the depth of the crossover and the horse’s bend, directly affecting balance and correct muscular and joint engagement.

• Less is more – start with a shallow angle and short distances. Asking too much too soon can lead to loss of accuracy or willingness due to muscle fatigue, especially in an untrained or stiff horse.

Most Common Rider Mistakes

• Overbending the neck to the rein: Instead of light flexion, the horse is bent excessively toward the rider’s hand.

• Incorrect timing of aids: Aids are not coordinated with the horse’s steps, causing the rider to fall out of sync with the horse and throw him off balance.

• Lack of clarity in aids: The horse does not understand what the rider is asking. The rider may resort to kicking with the leg the horse is supposed to move away from, while also pulling on the reins – creating confusion and resistance.

Common Non-Rider-Related Issues

• If the horse has a physical issue (such as lameness or irregular movement), performing this exercise correctly will be extremely difficult.

• Incorrect tack (poorly fitting saddle, girth, or an unsuitable bit) can interfere with the horse’s comfort and ability to respond properly.

If the horse and rider are struggling with leg-yield, they will almost certainly face the same — or greater — difficulties in other lateral movements. It is essential that horse and rider establish balance and harmony in this basic exercise to ensure success in more complex movements, such as shoulder-in, travers, or half-pass.