MARCH 2007 • VOLUME 19 • © HORSES For LIFE™ Magazine
The Influence of the Rein and the Bit on the Movements of the Horse; Anatomical-Functional Considerations
H. Geyer
Veterinary-Anatomical Institute,
University of Zurich
,
Switzerland
Reins and bits as well as bitless bridles have a steering as well as an impeding effect on the forward movement of the horse.
In this article, considerations from an anatomical point of view will be emphasised. With the endless variability of bridles in mind (Corda, 2001; Webber, 2002; Bennett, 2005) it is important to think about how and where the bits or bridle pieces and their extensions, the reins, influence the horse. A few measurements, which provide concrete data about the inducing forces, can be found in the literature (Preuschoft, 1993 and 1999; Preuschoft et al, 1999; Roepstorff, 2005). With any type of bridle one has to consider the consequences when instead of the steering, careful hand a harsh hand gives the aids, when the harsh hand is used with even more force or when instead of the quiet hand, erratic movements begin to influence the head.
The metal, rubber or plastic bit lies in front of the molars in an area of the gum that has no teeth. The rider should consider the sensitive structures which are being influenced by various forces (Frei, 1998).
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