Should you use side reins?

Side reins are an effective way to keep your horse’s body straight (especially his outside shoulder) while he’s working on the circle as you longe him. Or, if he’s already straight, side reins adjusted a hole or two shorter on the inside encourage an inside bend on the circle.

Why use side reins on horses?

Side reins are equipment used when longeing a horse, running from the bit of the bridle to the saddle or surcingle. As a horse training tool, they encourage flexion and softness in the horse’s mouth. For longe line work with a rider up who does not carry ordinary riding reins, they help calm and settle the animal.

Why side reins are bad?

So, whichever end you look at it, side-reins aren’t good for your horse! Side reins don’t allow for any stretch, block suppleness and definitely don’t encourage a horse to move biomechanically correctly. They also give no relief or release to the horse who is simply trying to work out what is being asked of him.

How tight should side reins be?

The side reins should never be so tight that they draw the horse’s head back (Kristen pulls his head down a little as if she was pulling on him on the bridle) or so tight that they pull his head down beyond the vertical or to try and force him into that frame that could eventually break the horse at the third vertebrae …

Can you jump a horse in side reins?

Can you jump your horse in draw reins? In short, yes, although they are not designed to be jumped with, showjumpers do sometimes jump in draw reins. Remember, the horse will need to be able to lift his head before the jump.

Are draw reins abusive?

Sure, it can be a dangerous and abusive tool if you want it to be. But if you’re aware of that, you can use the draw rein as a helpful training tool to help build your horse to his full potential. If you’re not comfortable using draw reins, ask someone or a few people that you trust what their opinions are.

Can you jump in draw reins?

Can you jump your horse in draw reins? In short, yes, although they are not designed to be jumped with, showjumpers do sometimes jump in draw reins. Remember, the horse will need to be able to lift his head before the jump. Horses should not be forced to jump with their heads at their knees.

Can you attach side reins to a Cavesson?

You can fit a headslip over the cavesson to attach side reins to. Just a headpeice from an old bridle and a bit. You don;t lunge from it – it is only there if you are working with an aid.

What is the donut for on side reins?

Used when lunging as a horse training tool, Side Reins encourage flexion and softness in the horse’s mouth.

Why do people jump in draw reins?

Can you jump in draw reins? Draw Reins or running reins are used by showjumpers as a training aid when riding on the flat to encourage the horse to work in a round frame and correct development of the muscles. When show jumpers ride in draw reins carefully and correctly, they can be a useful training tool.

Is it safe to lunge with no side reins?

1. Make sure your horse understands how to circle around you in both directions with no side-reins. How you attach the lungeline depends on your horse.

What’s the best way to lunge a horse?

Running side reins are also often used. Goals of lunging: Gymnastics and exercise. The horse should lean against the auxiliary reins and find a support there. The gymnastic value can be strengthened by pole- and cavaletti work. A no go in this concept: lunging the horses on the headcollar!

Why do I lunge my horse without a foundation?

Very often horses are lunged without a proper foundation. Some of these horses have a hard time to relax and that is why they don’t learn fast or well, or they learn the wrong things. A good foundation is firstly a lot of trust, clear communication and true connection between horse and trainer.

Do you wear a bridle when lunging a horse?

I even recommend wearing a helmet while lunging, just as with riding. Being complacent is never a good idea when it comes to working with horses. Lunge with a cavesson instead of a bridle or halter (see image below). This way, if your horse gets silly, you won’t accidentally pull on the bit or break your halter.