Lunging question re side reins as a harbridge

[DiamondSR]

Just looking for a bit of advice;

When lunging with side reins passed between the legs and attached at the bottom of the girth, how tight do you have them? I am aiming for long and low and don't want to pull his head down into position, just stop him going round like a giraffe! I have been lunging in a chambon but he doesn't get on too well in it - he backs off the lifting of the bit in his mouth and it seems to make him lift his head further.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Mari]

Aren't side reins attached to sides? As in from bit rings to girth straps near buckles. Don't think what you are describing are actually side reins, sounds more like fixed draw reins. Have you tried lunging with 2 lunge reins, outside one passes through ring on roller or stirrup (run up & secure) & comes round rear of horse. What bit are you using?

 

[vam]

I know what you mean as i used to use them like this with my mare, she would lean on side reins.
I think it was more trial and error to start. I started with them quite long then shorten them to a length you feel is right for your horse. Maybe start with them running from the girth to his gullet.
One thing i found was when they put there head right down they were really baggy and i was worried about it being stepped on, in the end i used just one and a newmarket type chain on the bit. It also ment i didnt have one rein shorter that the other.