What Is The Courbette?

In the courbette, the horse raises its forehand, tucks its forelegs then hops forward. It's another difficult task, with most horses only managing three or four hops before they have to touch down. (Some can manage more). A variant, the mezair, involves the horse striking out with its front legs - clearly an offensive maneuver - but it is seldom performed these days.

Mid hop, courtesy of Ludwig Koch.