Long Reining

Question
Hi! I am about to by a year old horse and for the first time I will be training it. I have read about many different techniques and I still don't understand what equipment you need to do long reining. I have been told it is a good way to teach your horse how to turn, stop, walk, and step back without you having to be in the saddle. But Before I try it I would like to get the right equipment. If you could help me out with this that would be great! Also I would love to hear what other tips you have for traing a young horse. Thank You!


Answer
Hi Taylor;

Long reining is a mix of ground driving and longeing and thus your horse should know how to do both of those first, but at a year of age he's really too young.

Longeing and long reining are very difficult to do correctly and are arts unto themselves, taking years to master.  It's not about the horse going around in a circle.  I suggest you purchase a couple of books.  Reiner Klimke I believe has a good longeing book.

For long reining you need long reins, a bridle and longeing whip.  For longeing you need a longeing cavesson to start with, a 30'+ longe line and longe whip.  Much later you can longe in a bridle.  A surcingle can also be added for both.  For ground driving you should have a blind bridle, driving reins, driving whip and proper harness, though you can make a surcingle work.  You also should have a second person to help you start in all three training techniques.

Keep your sessions short.  It's better to work 3 - 10mins sessions with a youngster than 1 - 30min session as their attention spans are short.

Your horse wouldn't be too young to clicker train.  That is a very fun and interactive approach and helps you as a trainer learn how to break down new skills and teach them in proper incriments.  Alexandra Kurland and Karen Pryor both have websites, books etc...

Be generous with your rewards, ignore incorrect behavior, be patient, don't get frustrated and enjoy your horse.

Best wishes!

Sincerely,

Lana Reinhardt