Half-pass

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The half-pass is a dressage movement in which the horse moves forward and sideways at the same time. Unlike the easier leg-yield, the horse is bent in the direction of travel, slightly around the rider's inside leg. The outside hind and forelegs should cross over the inside legs, with the horse's body parallel to the arena wall and his forehand (not his hind end) leading. The horse should remain forward, balanced, and bent, moving with cadence. The inside hind leg must remain engaged throughout the half-pass, and the horse should not lose its rhythm.

The half-pass is a variation of travers (haunches-in), executed on a diagonal instead of along the wall. When the half-pass is made in a zig-zag pattern, it is called a counter-change of hand.

[edit] The Half-Pass vs. the Leg-Yield

The half-pass [1][2] requires more balance, engagement, and collection from a horse than the leg-yield [3]. This is due to the fact that the horse is bent in the direction of movement in the half-pass. In the leg-yield, the horse is fairly straight or looking slightly away from the direction of travel.

[edit] The Purpose of the Half-Pass

The half-pass is an excellent schooling movement, as the horse must engage the hindquarters and increase its impulsion. The half-pass is also commonly seen in dressage tests, beginning at third level (USDF).