Red tape on reins

[Hormonal Filly]

I’m having regular lessons with a Grand Prix dressage rider (who is great!) and my mare is going so well.

BUT I’m sure I’m not holding the reins evenly. As in, I’ll take a slightly shorter contact in one hand than the other.

Just sat here thinking I might put some red tape on my reins on each side so I know where is level.

Is that crazy?

 

[Patterdale]

Not crazy but it doesn’t need to be red. Brown or white will do!
Also be aware that you can have your reins the same length, but still have more contact in one if you’re crooked

 

[Hormonal Filly]

Not crazy but it doesn’t need to be red. Brown or white will do!
Also be aware that you can have your reins the same length, but still have more contact in one if you’re crooked

true, thank you!

In the video I’ve watched back of me today I’m sat straight with elbows/hands looking level but one rein has more notches showing than the other.

Will try the tape and ask the instructor this coming week!

 

[Barton Bounty]

Sounds perfectly normal to me just to
Mark where you are

 

[Skib]

Normal for new riders in riding schools too.

 

[millitiger]

Sounds like a good idea.

For competing you can change to something more low key, like a plaiting band as a more discreet reminder.

 

[kathantoinette]

Not a crazy idea but you must remove it for competing. Someone got disqualified at my Area Festival venue for having tape on the reins!

 

[silv]

My trainer did that with me for years, I ended up just using plaiting bands.

 

[LEC]

You can get Henry James reins with notches almost on the reins. I found this style of rein super helpful for getting my reins shorter

 

[Spotherisk]

I’ll second the Henry James reins.

 

[oldie48]

I use continental reins and find they really help not only to ensure they are even but also to stop them being pulled through my fingers. They are also good for shortening up after a free walk.