The reining is the only equestrian discipline at the World Equestrian Games. It is recognized by the FEI. This discipline combines precision and agility. The rider and their horse must perform figures at a gallop, such as the Roll-back and the Spin.
Their mastery of the horse's power creates an impressive spectacle.
Main ideas to remember
- Reining is a unique equestrian discipline recognized by the FEI
- It combines technical prowess and spectacular performances
- The rider must master the power of their horse with precision
- Reining is practiced at a gallop with a series of required figures
- It is a very popular discipline, especially in western riding competitions
What is western riding reining?
Origin and history
Western reining comes from the United States. It began as a means of work for cowboys. They used these "games" to guide and sort cattle. Over time, these activities became competitions, including reining.
Reining requires skills similar to those of cowboys. It showcases the agility and flexibility of the horse. It also highlights the communication between the rider and their horse.
| Origin | History |
|---|---|
| United States |
|
The reining is now an important discipline of western riding. It highlights dressage and communication between rider and horse.
The course of a reining competition
The course of a reining competition is a captivating spectacle. The rider and their horse must execute a pattern. This includes figures like Roll-backs, Spins, Sliding Stops, and lead changes. They must do this at a gallop.
The rider must master these figures with precision and power. They must hold the reins in one hand, like cowboys with their lasso.
The reining pattern is the heart of this discipline. Participants must navigate fluidly through a complex choreography. Each movement is carefully evaluated. A small mistake can cost valuable points.
Mastering the reining figures is crucial for success. Riders must have perfect coordination and communication with their horse. This way, they can perform these figures with precision and grace.
Scoring in western riding reining
Reining, the flagship discipline of western riding, uses a precise scoring system. Each horse-rider pair starts with 70 points. Judges evaluate the performance of each figure, giving scores from -1.5 to +1.5.
Judges look at several important aspects. This includes adherence to the pattern, the horse's balance, its docility, and calmness. The goal is to achieve the highest score to win.
The points system
The final score comes from the scores given by the reining judges. Well-executed, fluid figures in harmony with the rider earn positive points. Mistakes, hesitations, or imbalances lose points.
| Criterion | Score |
|---|---|
| Adherence to the pattern | -1.5 to +1.5 |
| Horse's balance | -1.5 to +1.5 |
| Docility and calm | -1.5 to +1.5 |
| Final score | 70 + (assigned scores) |
This reining points system effectively evaluates the figures. It determines who is the best pair at the end.
Qualities required for practicing reining
The reining, an emblematic discipline of western riding, requires unique qualities. This concerns both the rider and the horse. A bond of trust and complicity is crucial between them.
The reining horse must be responsive and calm. It must execute the figures with power and precision. It must also be very responsive to the rider's signals.
The reining rider must have perfect control over their horse. Regular and methodical training is key for this. It allows for mastering the mount and creating a bond with it.
- Qualities required for the reining horse:
- Responsiveness and calm
- Power and precision in executing figures
- Listening and responsiveness to the rider's aids
- Qualities required for the reining rider:
- Perfect control of the mount
- Complicity and communication with the horse
- Regular and methodical training
The reining is a discipline where the balance between rider and horse is essential. This makes practice and observation fascinating. The bond between human and animal reaches its peak.
The growing popularity of reining
Reining, a discipline of western riding, is gaining popularity worldwide. Its international recognition comes from its inclusion by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI). This inclusion has increased its visibility and development.
Recognition by the FEI
Since 2002, reining has been included in the FEI World Equestrian Games. This inclusion has highlighted this technical and spectacular discipline. It has attracted an ever-growing audience.
Reining has become an Olympic discipline, which has increased its reining popularity and its FEI reining recognition. Reining competitions have multiplied. They offer riders and spectators the opportunity to discover and appreciate this unique equestrian sport.
| Year | Number of participants at the World Equestrian Games | Number of spectators |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 105 | 8,000 |
| 2006 | 132 | 10,500 |
| 2010 | 148 | 12,800 |
| 2014 | 167 | 15,200 |
| 2018 | 182 | 18,000 |
This discipline attracts more and more enthusiasts. They are captivated by the technical prowess and power of the horse-rider pairs. The reining popularity continues to assert itself. Reining is becoming an essential discipline of western riding.
Other disciplines of western riding
Reining is a major discipline of western riding, but there are other exciting activities. One can try Barrel Racing, Trail, Western Pleasure, or Cutting.
Each discipline showcases specific qualities of the horse and rider. This offers a wide variety of experiences. Many equestrian centers offer initiations and training in these disciplines.
The disciplines of western riding highlight speed, agility, and the bond between horse and rider. They offer a wide range of activities and western riding competitions.
| Discipline | Description | Competitions |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Racing | A speed event where the rider must complete a figure 8 around three barrels. | National and international Barrel Racing championships. |
| Trail | A course of natural or artificial obstacles, showcasing the horse's flexibility and obedience. | Trail competitions in reining equestrian centers and western equestrian events. |
| Western Pleasure | A dressage event where the horse must demonstrate relaxation, gentleness, and obedience. | Western Pleasure competitions organized by western riding federations. |
| Cutting | A discipline where the rider and their horse must separate a calf from a herd and keep it apart. | Cutting championships at national and international levels. |
Western riding offers many possibilities for riders. They can explore their talents and take on new challenges. This allows for developing a unique bond with their mount.
Conclusion
Reining is an exciting discipline of western riding. It combines precision, power, and spectacle. Whether in competition or exploration, it offers great opportunities for riders.
It allows for creating a unique relationship with the horse. Reining is a cornerstone of western riding.
If you want to learn more about this western riding discipline, the reining discovery is perfect. It will help you understand the techniques and requirements. Reining captivates with its elegance and demands, whether you are a beginner or experienced.
In conclusion, the western reining conclusion is a discipline to discover. It offers a unique and exciting experience. It will capture the hearts of all riders.
FAQ
What is reining in western riding?
Reining is a discipline of western riding that combines precision and agility. The rider and their horse must perform figures at a gallop, such as the Roll-back and the Spin. They must do this with power and mastery.
What is the origin of reining?
Reining comes from the United States, where it was used by cowboys. These "games" were practiced to supervise herds. Today, they have become competitions, of which reining is a part.
How does a reining competition unfold?
The rider and their horse must follow a "Pattern," which is a series of figures at a gallop. These figures include the Roll-back and the Spin. The goal is to execute them with precision and power.
How is reining scored?
Pairs start with 70 points. The jury scores each figure from -1.5 to +1.5 points. The final score is the sum of these scores. The goal is to achieve the highest score.
What qualities are required to practice reining?
The horse must be responsive and calm. The rider must have a trusting relationship with their horse. This allows for perfect control of the horse.
Why is reining experiencing growing popularity?
The popularity of reining is increasing due to the recognition from the FEI and the World Equestrian Games. This discipline attracts more and more practitioners and spectators.
What are the other disciplines of western riding?
Western riding includes disciplines like Barrel Racing and Trail. Each discipline highlights specific qualities of the horse and rider.
RelatedRelated articles
- 30 Jul 2025·5 min readMen's Riding Boots Size 47 | Find YoursGeneral
The French Saddle (https://laselleriefrancaise.com) has a unique selection of men's riding boots size 47 of superior quality. These boots are made in France by renowned artisans. You can choose from classic leather models or more modern styles. They ...