Tightening of reigns

[Stephelia]

One of the things that my instructor gets on me about is the tension on the reigns. He always is yelling for me to tighten the reigns... to the point where I feel like I'm pulling too hard and sending mixed signals.

I trust my instructor implicitly, and I do have control issues with my horse (I have a rascal who tries to take advantage whenever possible.. in the ring, he doesn't want to go.. on a hack, he recently took off on me).

But are there any "rules of thumb" regarding reign tension? I use a snaffle bit.

Steph

[lamprellsarah]

well if you get the snaffle bit and link it around someones arm, and then try to get a contact with out hurting and with an even pressure (get them to tell you) then you will know what it's meant to feel like and get them to do this to you!!
i don't know any rules that you can actually do with the horse, but some instructors will hold the reins, and while you are holding onto the reins they show you want contact you are doing and what contact you should be doing!!
but saying this i ride my horse on a long rein and i have always done this, because of the same issues you are talking about, but then i have no problems with running out, bucking, rearing or bolting cos my horse simpley doesn't do it!! :)

sorry not much of a help :(

[Kerry's Partner!!]

I agree with the advice you've had so far. How about also posting this thread on the Enlightened Equitation board too? Due to really good tuition this issue is something I'm just starting to get to grips with (if you'll forgive the pun). You describe your concern for the horse so well and with some advice from those more experienced I think you'll also start getting to grips with this too. I mean, of course, in a way that the horse really appreciates and you do too!!!