Flat schooling/Showjumping question.

[HayleyUK]

I've ditched the 3 ring gag for a lose ring jointed snaffle, and am now starting to work her on the flat in an attempt to undo the work of the gag and show her she can lower her head.

A trainer who came to the yard recommended a 'bungee rein', specifically the type that goes from her girth, through the bit rings and to her poll. I'm wary of it tying her head in and leaving her hindquarters behind but it may help her get the idea?
Anyone any experiences of these to share?

Also, since shes as rideable in the gag as she is the snaffle, would you be tempted to try her in the snaffle (with a martingale & possibly a flash if I think I need to) jumping instead of the gag?
I'm not a fan of this 3 ring gag bit at all.

Just looking for some opinions really.

 

[samp]

Bungees are great as they are very elasticated so the horse is not forced to work in an outline but more encouraged. It is your job as a rider to then keep the engine going from behind

 

[Nikiolola]

Didn't work on my horse at all - either it was too slack and he could still put his head up to evade it, or too tight at which point he started walking backwards. I know a lot of people like them though.

 

[Taboo1968]

The biggest problem with these are they can produce a very nice pretty picture but the horse is still not going anywhere..... as samp said, it puts them there but the rider has to get the engine going.... and the only way you will get that is by riding leg to hand at the end of the day......

 

[kerilli]

i'd jump her in the snaffle, ditch the 3-ring gag, personally.
i wouldn't use a bungee, i'd spend the money on a few sessions with a good patient trainer who can show you and her that the comfort zone is when she's soft and giving at the poll and jaw. it takes a lot of patience, but it's so worth it because the horse learns (which it doesn't in any gadget, imho) so you can build on every 1% of improvement.