How to Use Split Reins
The most common type of reins used in western riding disciplines are split reins. These are made of two strips of leather around 7 to…
Tag: western lesson
Barrel Racing Drills to Improve Your Pattern
You know the barrel racing pattern, and you’ve started taking your horses to gymkhanas and play days. Now it’s time to refine your approach and…
Improve Your Reining Sliding Stops
You’ve seen reining horses lope, speed up, then slide to a dramatic sliding stop. What does it take to ride through this stop and keep…
Getting Started in Barrel Racing
A gymkhana is a collection of timed events on horseback, and the most popular gymkhana game is barrel racing. Three barrels are set in a…
Riding on a Loose Rein
Being able to ride your horse on a loose rein can be helpful in a variety of situations, like competing in certain western classes or…
How IEA Practice Works
As part of any team, practice hopefully means scoring more points in competition. When you ride on an Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team for grades…
The Extended Western Gaits
Walk. Jog. Lope. Most of us know about these gaits, but did you know there are three more variations in between? They are extended western…
Master the Bridge Obstacle
Just about any trail course or ranch trail course will include a bridge obstacle. You’ll be riding your horse across it, and to gain points…
Western Lesson: Showmanship Setup
Showmanship class requires you and your horse to work as a team. While leading your horse through the pattern is important, the inspection is a…
Western Lesson: Cue the Lope, Cut the Drama
Cueing your horse to canter (or lope, whichever term you prefer) can cause a bit of tension, especially if your horse has a history of…
