And this time about the reverse — leading backward.

1. The importance of the reverse is very great — both in the desired backward movement, but also in its dramatic and absolute effect on speed in riding and in leading (speed control).
   
   
2. In leading it is always advisable to use body language as part of the request. The suggested body language is turning toward the horse before applying pressure, and if needed pressure will be applied on the horse’s nose (through the halter) or in his mouth, through the rein and the bit.
   
   
3. In riding and in leading, collection of the horse is essential as part of the request.
   True, it is possible to slow down and walk backward in riding or in leading even without collection (for example, in leading backward by shaking the rope that lifts the horse’s head…).
   But it will be much easier for the horse to understand the reverse and perform it easily, the more we make this movement more comfortable for him through his collection, and always…
   
   
4. When the rider turns toward the horse, it is important to ask for a response from the horse as well — which will be expressed in movement of at least one meter backward.
   
   
5. It is advisable not to ask the horse to lead backward when we are facing forward.
   This is in order to create for him a clear separation in our body language that distinguishes between leading forward or leading backward.
   
   
6. In leading on a trail ride,
   for example on a steep descent, when we dismount for our safety and his safety, it is advisable to lead with one rein, and tie the other to the saddle or around his neck.
   It is not advisable in this case to use the lead rope which is too dull for this situation.
   
   
7. In leading on a steep descent, it is also advisable to clarify to the horse the leading backward one second before beginning to lead downhill.
   We will clarify that immediately upon our turning toward him — and with applying pressure with the single rein in our hand — the horse will have to step at least one step backward.
   This action will ensure that as soon as the horse gets close to us from behind during the descent itself, and there is a danger that he will “trample” us — our turning toward him will suffice — he will keep the 2 meters from us for our safety.
   
   

Thanks to Maayan Atias for the video footage.