ABSTRACT
Rein-back is a symmetric diagonal gait without a swing phase (5.1, 5.2). For this reason it is appropriate to evaluate the biomechanics of the forehand and the hindquarters separately.
Two principal phases can be described with regard to the biomechanics of the forelimbs and the head and neck (cervicocephalic) balance system. Contrary to the usual gaits, protraction of the forelimb takes place during weight bearing and pushes the horse backwards. Retraction of the limb takes place in the non-weightbearing phase and leads to ground contact through the point of the toe.
