1. Two Styles
There are two styles of equestrian reining, neck and direct. Neck reining is Western riding and direct is English riding. There are pros and cons to both styles of reining. In Western riding, the horse receives direction by the pressure of the reins on the neck and a slight tension in the bit. This type of reining requires only one hand, freeing up the other hand for other activities. This method is easier to learn and prevents beginners from pulling and damaging the horse. Direct reining is English riding. The direct uses tension on the side you want to go. This method provides a level of precision and control. The rider is not required to move their arms or hands to indicate direction.
2. Training The Horse
To train the horse in the neck reining method, the rider starts very early, using a simply lead rope and the halter. Without any bit, the provide direction from the ground. It is easy to teach the horse that pressure on the neck indicates a direction. Direct reining uses a lead by a person on the ground to indicate direction. Very few horses use both styles because it is considered confusing to the horse.
3. Equipment Required
Neck reining requires a Western style bridle. These bridles use a longer bit and the reigns attaches to the bottom of the bit. The reins are made of leather and are two separate pieces. Direct reigning requires an English bridle. The reins attach directly to the bit, which lies in the horse's mouth.
4. Common Rider Errors
When learning to ride, many riders lean their body weight in the direction they want to go, hoping this will encourage the horse to move. This is not correct. The upper body position remains centered for both riding styles. In Western riding, the reins can be too long. Hold the reigns in one hand, with the excess hanging down on the left hand side. Center the hands directly above the saddle horn. Any longer and your signals are not communicated properly and clearly to the horse. In English riding, beginners confuse tension for control. Close your hands, with the reins running under your thumb and between your fourth and pinky finger. Thumbs must always be flat at parallel to the ground. Excess reins are hanging over the left hand side.
5. Quiet Hands
Both equestrian reigning styles require quiet hands. When your hands are quiet, there are no unnecessary hand movements. Keep your hands perfectly still even as the upper body and the horse move. Hold your arms at a 90-degree angle and pay attention to the movements of your fingers and hands. Remember that the reins are your method of communication with your horse. Avoid frustration and confusion by sending clear, direct signals of what you want.
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