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Horse jargon can be bewildering to the uninitiated. But fear not! We’re here to help you decipher the horsey jargon so you can sound like a pro (or at least nod along convincingly!).
Let’s trot through some of the most common terms you will encounter as a beginner around horses.
Groundwork
Even before getting into the saddle, groundwork introduces many basic training concepts. Horses must first have good ground manners to reduce risks and potential injuries to themselves and humans. Groundwork can also be less intimidating for new riders while helping the rider and horse build confidence and trust and establish a mutual and effective horse-human relationship and communication.
Working the Reins
The reins are a direct line of communication between the equine (through the bit) and its rider. The proper rein length depends on the task to be performed.
- Soft Hands: This term is often easier said than done, especially for the beginner rider. This advanced skill describes the rider’s hands as soft, forgiving, and supple when giving direction via the reins. Hard or harsh pulls travel to the bit inside the horse’s mouth and are the opposite of soft hands.
- Shorten: The rider inches their hands up along the reins closer to the horse’s mouth, increasing the pressure on the horse’s mouth. This is also known as tightening the reins, tightening up the reins, or taking up the slack in the reins.
- Lengthen: The opposite of “shorten,” this action decreases the amount of pressure on the bit as the rider inches their hands down the reins.
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Leg Work
Learning and using proper leg pressure while riding is crucial to avoid confusing the horse and that’s why “leg work” is a common term in horse jargon! Good riders will keep a constant but soft pressure around the horse. There are two terms commonly used around leg work:
- Quiet leg. Like “soft hands,” quiet leg describes a rider whose legs move very little and only apply pressure around the horse to provide a cue or directive. Riders without quiet legs are said to be “busy with their legs” or “unsteady in their legs.
- More leg. To use more leg pressure around the horse, an instructor will say “more leg.”
Deep Seat
The best riders move in unison with their horse instead of against their movement. To effectively do this, riders must develop a deep seat (imagine sitting back on your pants pockets). Developing a proper deep seat allows the horse to perform at their best.
Heels Down
A rider’s heel should always be closer to the ground than their toes. Low, flexible heels are seen in riders with deep seats and quiet legs. Heels down also creates properly positioned feet in the stirrup.
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Conclusion
Understanding horse jargon is like learning a new language, but with practice, you’ll speak “horse” in no time! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to brush up on your terminology, remember everyone, even the most seasoned riders, was a beginner once!
Saddle up, don your breeches (those snug pants that stretch to fit), pull on your boots, and enjoy the ride!
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