| Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE | | | | Advanced horses can long rein using surcingle rings at |
| You will probably have seen long reining being done | | | | the withers, but for novice horses (and novice long |
| before - either by trainers breaking young horses, or | | | | reiners!), rings at the side are best. As with lunging or |
| being used with advanced horses such as the famous | | | | other work, you might also want to protect your |
| Lipizzaner in Vienna. | | | | horse's legs with brushing boots or wraps. |
| There's no doubt long reining has an important role in | | | | If you expect your horse to be a bit reluctant or lazy, a |
| training - it is after all, where the horse first really learns | | | | long (such as a carriage driving) whip may be helpful, |
| about communication with the rider through the reins. | | | | although you should never strike your horse while long |
| Because communication with your horse's head and | | | | reining. And, of course, you need the long reins, |
| mouth is going to be a fundamental part of its future | | | | although two lunge lines will do. |
| as a riding horse, it's important to get this early stage | | | | Fit the halter or bridle and surcingle, making sure that |
| right. So where do you start? | | | | the girth is secure. If you are using a bridle, fit a halter |
| First of all, your horse needs to be ready to long rein. | | | | over it and start with the halter before working with |
| You should have established the basics of lunging | | | | the bit rings. You should introduce your horse to the |
| safely, and your horse should have a willingness to go | | | | long reins gradually, and where it can still see you. |
| forward and stop with voice commands on the lunge | | | | Begin by lunging your horse normally in both directions |
| and while leading. It may seem obvious, but of your | | | | until it is relaxed. |
| horse won't lead - let alone lunge - you aren't ready to | | | | Then attach one long rein to the inside halter ring. |
| long rein! | | | | The other long rein attaches to the outer halter ring, |
| You will need some equipment to long rein safely. A | | | | passes through the surcingle loop on that side, and |
| bridle with the regular reins removed, or for horses not | | | | over the horse's back. Hold both reins, one in each |
| yet bitted, working in a halter with rings at either side of | | | | hand, and move back from your horse. Begin to |
| the nose is fine. You will need a surcingle with rings | | | | encourage it to move forward, with you slightly behind |
| at the side for the long reins, and it is advisable to | | | | its shoulder, until it is walking comfortably around the |
| secure it with a breastgirth to prevent it slipping back | | | | circle. |
| or twisting from side to side. | | | | |