How to Properly Hold Horse Reins

The reins allow a rider to communicate with the horse.

The reins of a horse are the straps that a rider holds and uses to guide the horse to turn direction. Reins are usually made of rope or leather and are attached to the horse's bridle, where the nose-band and the bit meet. The reins are not meant for riders to use to balance themselves; nor should they be used to pull on a horse, as you would a dog's leash. Rather, they are an instrument to aid the rider in communicating with the horse as you are riding.

Instructions

1. Sit comfortably on the horse's back -- in the saddle -- with your hips and lower back in a relaxed posture. This will aid your upper body in absorbing any jostling during the horse's movement. It will also prevent you from sending mixed signals to the horse, by unintentionally jerking the reins.

2. Hold the left rein in your left hand -- and the right rein in your right hand.

3. Loop the rein over your ring, middle and index fingers, so that your thumb and pinkie finger are on the outside of the rein.

4. Curl your fingers around the rein and make a loose fist.

5. Hold the reins directly out in front of your body about 8 to 12 inches from your lap.

References

• Natural Horse Supply: Training - Reins
• Rara Equus: How to Hold Horse Reins

Resources

• Horse Care & Riding : How to Hold a Horse's Reins