How to Train Martingales

Running martingales are often used in English riding.

The martingale is a training device meant to prevent your horse from raising his head high. There are two main kinds of martingales: the standing martingale and the running martingale. The standing martingale loops around the girth between your horse's front legs, clips to the D rings on either side of the front of the saddle and connects to the noseband of the bridle. The running martingale splits into two straps that extend from the neck, and the two straps loop through each rein. The running martingale only should be used with a snaffle bit.

Things You'll Need

• Snaffle bit
• Martingale
• Enclosed arena
• Saddle
• Girth

Instructions

1. 

   A standing martingale can be used with any bit.

   Tack up your horse with saddle and bridle. Bring the martingale and lead your horse into an enclosed, unoccupied arena. Once inside, have an experienced horse person hold your horse while you put on the martingale.

2. 

   Ring stoppers must be used with a running martingale.

   Lead your horse by the reins around the arena for several minutes to allow your horse to get used to how the martingale feels. Be prepared for your horse to react to the new equipment. Continue walking your horse until it seems comfortable.

3. 

   A standing martingale can help train a horse not to toss its head.

   Mount your horse and continue to walk it around the arena. Notice how the martingale lowers the reins when your horse raises its head. Do not give in to this downward pull, but instead maintain a firm yet light hand on the reins. When your horse seems comfortable, proceed to the trot, then canter. Take as much time in each gate as required for your horse to adjust to the martingale.

4. 

   Running martingales increase downward pressure on the reins.

   Continue with your ride. If at any point your horse balks at the martingale or seems uneasy, go back to walking, trotting and then cantering. Repeat this process in all of your rides until your horse accepts and does not resist the martingale.

Tips & Warnings

• Work with an experienced trainer when introducing training aids to your horse.

• Because running martingales increase pressure on a horse's mouth, they should only be used by experienced riders.

• Do not use a running martingale if you have concerns about your horse's teeth, if it has a sensitive mouth, or if you are an inexperienced rider.

References

• Flexing At The Poll-Using Aids
• Martingales

Resources

• Horse Training