Horse glossary
Hindquarters
The back end of the horse where pushing power comes from.
In Spanish: Tren posterior
What it means
The hindquarters are the back part of the horse's body, from the loin and croup down through the hips, thighs, stifles, and hocks. This big, muscular area is the horse's engine: it pushes the horse forward and carries weight when it slows down, turns, or jumps.
Why it matters
A horse that uses its hindquarters well moves in better balance and is lighter in the front. Riders often talk about asking the horse to "step under" with its hind legs to build strength and control.
Example
Hindquarters help a horse turn and stop.
Try this
Transitions, hill work, and ground poles are simple ways to build the hindquarters. When grooming or walking behind a horse, stay close with a hand on its body, or walk well out of reach.
Common mistake
Standing an arm's length or two behind a horse is the most dangerous spot, because that's where a kick has the most force. Either stay very close or stay far away.