Page 3 - merged_organized_new

WHAT IS REINING?

Reining is the epitome of western riding originating from the work of the cowboys and ranchers. Our sport is famous for its spectacular maneuvers, executed by horse and rider in perfect
harmony. Riders communicate with their mounts mainly through weight shift, leg pressure and rein contact in order to perform the maneuvers precisely. A soft communication is essential
to guiding the horse through a series of maneuvers. The patterns vary depending on the choice of the judge but always contain a combination of various circles, lead changes, spins, stops
and rollbacks. These maneuvers simulate the work of a ranch horse working a cow. In this situation agility and a quick reaction are called for. The performance is being evaluated by several
judges who are looking for precision, speed, control and elegance while performing the maneuvers. Horses working in a calm manner while being alert and precise are being awarded higher
scores. Reining is one of the most demanding sports out there. EIt requires a close connection between rider and horse as well as intensive education and training to successfully complete
the maneuvers.

THE REINING MANEUVERS ARE:

CIRCLES: Each reining pattern includes several circles of different sizes and speeds at the lope to showcase the harmony between horse and rider. It is important to show a circle
that is consistent in both size and speed. The rider has to ensure that the circle has an even shape without being too large or too small. A circle that is too tight might lead to a loss
of balance whereas a circle that is too large might be considered as lacking precision. While performing the circle the speed should be consistent without gaining or loosing speed.
Following the circle the horse has to change leads. Here the horse changes its diagonal with changing the speed at which it is running.

SPIN: The spin is a fast and precise 360° turn on the hocks. This maneuver requires a lot of training, skill and communication between the rider and the horse. A well executed spin
shows the maneuverability and skill of the horse and it a truly impressive element.

SLIDING STOP: It begins with the run down and ends in a controlled abrupt stop. The horse should continuously build up speed during the run down in a controlled fashion and
then smoothly “melt” into the stop. The horse’s front legs during the stop should continue moving in a trot movement while gliding on its hocks. Clear signals given by the rider are
essential in this maneuver. It requires a high degree of control and balance from both horse and rider. The horse should stop in a straight line and hold its balance throughout the
stop. A well executed stop shows all the horse’s abilities. After coming to a stop the horse has to either roll back or back up. The rollback is a 180° turn on the hocks, which the horse
performs out of the stop without hesitating and continues to lope in the opposite direction.

3