PRINCIPLES.
The following are the usual principles to be observed in holding the reins:—
1. A secure grip of the reins should be maintained, with as little stiffness as possible, because stiffness implies continued muscular contraction, and consequent defective manipulation from fatigue.
2. When both hands are used, we should hold the reins so that we can freely use our hands, either separately or together, in any required direction.
3. When both hands are used, the manner of holding the reins by one hand should be the same as that by the other, so that the feeling of the hands on the reins may be the same on both sides.
4. When a horse which has an “even” mouth is going in a straight direction, the action of one rein should be the same as that of the other rein.
