Long reining

[dannyboy]

I'm trying to think of different things to do with Murphy. What do I need for long reining? Do you think it would be good for Murphy? Can I do it on lanes / roads or do I need an arena? I'm sorry, I don't know an awful lot about it and was hoping you could shed some light.

[scattymare]

Danny long reining would be great for you and Murphy. All you need to start is your usual tack and two lunge lines. Or you can buy long reining kits with a training roller, but it's not necessary when your starting.
Tie your stirrups to the girth and put the lunge reins through so they wont dangle on the floor. You can then stand either slightly to one side or behind them. Use vocal commands to get Murphy walking on and stopping.
I would start off in the field or arena til you get the hang of holding the lines - comes very quickly though. Then off you go. If you're worried how Murphy will react first time out, see if OH will walk with you.
Its great for getting them out and about (and yourself fit)
I've done it lots with Katie and its really helped her gain confidence.

[duckles]

I agree with Scatty. Its also good with the arthritic horse!
Holding the lines does come quickly (and I am not very adroit) but I do find to difficult to hold a whip as well so I don't bother. Once they understand what you mean, it is really easy and its fun (but it took me a few goes to find it fun)
It is amazing the way it increases confidence.
If Murphy has never been long reined, it might take a shake of the whip or( someone leading him )to realise that you mean him to walk on. With both JB and Cori, I had to had to do that the very first time but never again. THey caught on very quickly.

[racaille]

There's a thread explaining 'how to' in horsey FAQs.

[dannyboy]

Nov 17, 2009 6:04:45 GMT racaille said:

There's a thread explaining 'how to' in horsey FAQs.

Ahhhh.... I done a search in schooling but didn't try FAQs