What is the purpose of a German martingale?
The German martingale is a specialized piece of training tack that teaches your horse to give to the bit and flex at the poll. By helping the rider teach the horse good vertical or lateral head position, German martingales can be a powerful training tool.
Can you jump with a German martingale?
A martingale is a band-aid, not a fix for rushing jumps.
Why use a running martingale on a horse?
Running martingales help give the rider extra control by discouraging the horse from raising its head beyond the point that the bit works correctly in the horse’s mouth. It works by stabilising the reins and applying downward pressure on the mouth via the bit and reins when the horse raises its head too high.
Can you use a running martingale as a standing martingale?
The standing martingale should only be used with a cavesson noseband. The standing martingale can restrict the horses movement, especially if it is not fitted correctly….How to use this guide.
| Purpose of a Martingale | The Running Martingale |
|---|---|
| The Market Harborough | The Standing Martingale |
| Other Martingales |
What bits can you use with a German martingale?
You can use various types of bits with this piece equipment, but I suggest a smooth- or twisted-mouthpiece snaffle or a shanked snaffle. When a horse “roots into the bit” (pushes against the bit’s pressure), is chargey, or even a little high-headed, the German martingale draws his nose into a better frame.
Does my horse need a martingale?
When the horse raises his head because he is excited, spooked, or avoiding the bit, the running martingale should come into effect. Being able to release the reins is also a safety feature if the horse gets caught on something, or needs to get his head up to regain his balance.
Are martingales cruel?
Martingale collars are specifically designed not to be cruel. Unlike choke collars, you can set the limit to which the collar can close when your dog is pulling, so that it will never cause them serious harm. But a Martingale collar is just a tool, and like all tools, it can be used in a positive or a negative way.
Are running martingales bad?
Running martingales are less restrictive than standing martingales and are considered by many to be safer (they can be used in eventing, for example). However, they should always be used with rein stops, which prevent the rings from slipping down and getting caught on the bit.
What are Vienna reins?
Vienna reins, also known as balancing or triangle reins, resemble draw reins but are used for longeing. They can be fastened to various points on the surcingle or roller, allowing a multitude of neck positions without creating a forced frame.