Back to: Western Rider Level 1
What is an Open/Leading Rein?
It is the simplest of reins to use and of course useful in all the disciplines. This rein can be used with all types of bridles because of its primary effect, which is to invite the horse into the open space created by the rein action. The opening comes from your forearm as it moves away from the horse’s neck. The rein should be only 4 to 6 inches off the horse’s neck. It doesn’t need to open wide, or for you to take your hand to your knee.
How To
- From the basic hand position in contact with the horse’s mouth on a straight line, bring the hand outward turning the horse’s neck in the direction you wish to go.
- Your hands should remain at the same height and your elbows close to your body. Note that you don’t pull back while you open.
- The pressure on the rein should be the same as it was when your hand was close to the neck.
- In fact, as you get better at opening the rein, you can reduce the distance from the horse’s neck.
- Most advanced horses and riders can find the smallest open rein as useful as a wide one.
- Think maybe 2 inches off the neck as you progress in your balance and aids
When should you use the Open Rein?
- Teaching a new rider to steer
- Training a young horse
- Teaching an uneducated horse
- Straighten the outside shoulder
- To shift the horse’s weight to the outside
- Invite flexion