Have you been practicing your rein back? The rein back is often a “forgotten” movement in dressage, but it has a LOT of benefits and can be very helpful in the correct training of your horse!
The rein back is a test of suppleness, connection, engagement, and most of all submission. As flight animals, horses in general don’t naturally back up. Their instinct is to run and go forward, so it takes a huge amount of trust and submission for the horse to listen to the rider and go backwards!!
The good news is that you don’t need a big and fancy horse to get a good score on the rein back. The rein back is more about accuracy and obedience.
What defines a correct rein back?
- A clear square halt with the horse engaged and on the bit
- Clear diagonal pairs – 2 beat rhythm
- An engaged top line with the horse on the bit
- Lowering of the hind quarters
What are the aids for rein back?
- Think of wheels in your hips turning backwards and close your knees. Close both fists on the rein and release slightly each time the horse takes a step back.
- A good halt is key to a good rein back. The horse must step forward into the halt and maintain the frame. It is very important that the horse does not anticipate the rein back – they must always halt and show immobility before starting the rein back.
What should you do if you are having trouble with the rein back?
Get off and teach it from the ground. You can use either a rope halter or a bridle. Since backing up really is not a natural movement for the horse, it is much easier to teach this movement first from the ground. I have had horses with such a difficult time backing up under saddle that I had to have someone come on the ground and stand beside me to get the horse to back up!
