The idea for this page was sparked by an outside comment to make the blog more readable for those not familiar with horseback riding.
Bit - The metal piece held in a horse’s mouth on a bridle.
Bridle - Consisting of a bit and the leather straps that fit around a horse’s head, the bridle connects to the reins to allow the rider hand-control while on a horse.
Canter - Out of the four gaits of a horse, this is the second-fastest. The canter can be ridden in two-point (See Trot) or while seated (slightly more advanced). Cantering is the nominal pace for show jumping.
Flatwork – Work you and your horse do that does not involve jumping.
Halter - The headgear worn by a horse that does not involve a bit; halters are used to lead a horse around when its not being ridden.
Lead rope – This usually attaches to a halter and is used for leading a horse around.
Lunge line – A longer line that is used in training. The lunge line is held and the horse circles the holder. Usually a long whip is used in conjunction with it.
Reins - Long (1-2m) straps that attach to either side of a bridle for hand-control of a horse.
Transitions - Changing the gait of a horse, eg from walk to trot. Transitioning to a slower gait is referred to as a downward transition.
Trot – Out of the four gaits of a horse, this is the second slowest. There are three ways of riding a horse when in the trot: sitting, posting (moving the core up and down so as to make contact every second step) and two-point (resting all weight on the legs, none on the seat, with the hips back and back bent).
Walk – Out of the four gaits of a horse, this is the slowest.
