engage (which occurs just before beat one), the horse raises its head and neck as its hind leg steps under. As the legs push off the ground (beats 1 and 2) the head and neck of the horse drops. When the leading leg (beat 3) touches the ground, the head and neck are as low as they will be for the stride, and then they begin to come back up as the horse places its weight on its leading leg. During the suspension phase, the head and neck continue back to the highest point as the hind legs come back under the body. Riding The canter and gallop may be ridden in three ways, sitting, half-seat, and two-point. In a half-seat and/or two-point position the rider's seat is raised out of the saddle to some extent, the upper body leaning forward as needed to balance over the horse's center of gravity, and more weight is carried in the stirrups. The more forward positions allow the horse greater freedom of movement at speed, over rough terrain, or when jumping. When a rider sits the canter, the seat remains firmly in the saddle at all times, allowing a more secure position and greater control over the horse. There is some disagreement over terminology. Some scholars use the term "three point" position to describe the half-seat, others use it to describe a rider sitting all the way down in the saddle. Conversely, some instructors use the term "half seat" to describe a full two-point jumping seat. A rider sitting the lope or canter requires relaxed hips and the upper body balanced over the center of gravity of the horse, usually achieved by slightly leaning the torso forward. The seat bones remain in contact with the saddle at all times. The rider "rolls" with the canter, allowing free movement in the hips and relaxation in the thighs. The forward incline of the rider's upper body may vary, from very upright (used in a collected canter), to slightly forward. The lower leg should remain quiet, the heel will sink down slightly and the knee angle may open with the footfalls, absorbing the shock of the gait. The hands should keep steady contact with the horse's mouth. Visually the rider keeps a straight line between the elbow and the mouth of the horse, which requires a relaxed arm that can follow the motion of the horse's