Rein tension in 8 professional riders during regular training sessions
Authors: M. Eisersiö, M. Rhodin, L. Roepstorff, A. Egenvall
Journal: Journal of Veterinary Behavior-clinical Applications and Research
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Rein Tension During Regular Training Eight professional riders schooling three horses each wore instrumented reins to measure the forces applied during entire training sessions, with tension recorded across different gaits, rider positions, and exercises whilst video footage documented precisely what was happening at each moment. Walk produced the lowest median rein tension (12 N), trot intermediate values (14–19 N depending on posting versus sitting), and canter the highest (13–24 N), with sitting trot and sitting canter generating substantially greater tension than their posting and light-seat equivalents. Rider identity accounted for most variation in baseline and light rein contact, whilst individual horses showed the strongest influence on peak tension and overall range—a finding that suggests different horses may respond to or require markedly different communication strategies even within the same rider's hands. The right rein generally carried higher tension during peaks, though the inside rein dominated during canter, which has implications for understanding lateral balance and turning mechanics. For practitioners, these data underscore that rein tension cannot be meaningfully interpreted without considering gait, seat position, exercise type, and individual horse and rider characteristics, making it essential to view rein contact as a dynamic variable rather than a fixed parameter.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Expect and monitor naturally higher rein tensions in canter and during sitting trotting; postural changes significantly affect communication clarity
- •Right rein naturally carries more tension at extremes—be aware of asymmetrical loading and adjust accordingly for your horse's balance
- •Individual horse temperament matters most when dealing with inconsistent or excessive rein tension; rider technique matters most for baseline communication
Key Findings
- •Rein tension varies significantly by gait: walk (median 12 N) < trot (14-19 N) < canter (13-24 N)
- •Rider position affects tension in trot (posting 14 N vs sitting 17-19 N) and canter (light seat 13-17 N vs sitting 20-24 N)
- •Right rein consistently shows higher tension in extreme ranges; inside rein highest during canter
- •Rider contributes most variation in median/low tension; horse contributes most to high tension variation