subject: Horse Riding Reins [print this page] When you are attempting to master the art of horse riding reins, know that there will be a challenge to the process. Using horse reins may seem like a simple concept, but until your horse trusts you this can remain a dangerous process. Use extreme caution when you are taking him out for the first time, and understand what things tend to agitate him. This will make the process safer and more effective in the long run.
The goal of using horse riding reins is to have the ability to control your horse, and get him to do as you request when you tug on the horse reins in a specific manner. When you first get on your horse, settle down into the saddle. You should grip the reins in both hands and keep them around a foot apart. Keep an eye on the horse's actions to determine their tolerance for this process. If they seem uneasy, you may want to train from the ground, keeping an eye on the back legs. If he starts bucking, you should back off until he settles down.
Begin by simply sitting there for a few minutes to get them comfortable with the process. They should be easing into the idea of the horse reins being on them. If they begin dancing excitedly, you should dismount the horse at once. If they appear okay, gentle push your right leg into the horse and pull the rein to the right. He should begin to move in that direction and you can allow them to walk for a few faces. Repeat this with the left side. You can repeat several times, and in about a week the horse should understand the basics of the horse riding reins you are using.
Squares are a popular and very safe exercise that people do to try their horse in accepting the reins. Keep an eye on your horse's feet when you are doing this. Begin the process by walking your horse with the reins in your hands. When you turn left, tug on the left rein, essentially you are walking in a box making four turns and helping the horse to understand what you expect from them. Do this four times in each direction so you can utilize both right and left commands.
Since horses can become creatures of habit, never do the same square pattern. They will get used to it being a certain way, and not understand the reins are the cause for the turn, and that the pattern isn't important. Soon he will begin to understand better and it will excite him to understand the process more in depth with your help.
No matter what method you choose, is best to get your horse used to the horse riding reins in a safe manner. If he becomes agitated, or anxious, don't push him to do more exercises until he has calmed down. This will prevent him from bucking around, and potentially causing injury to you or others around the area.
