The Effect on Rein Tension of Different Training Methods for Gymnastic Neck Flexion in Base Level Trained Sport Horses at the Walk

Introduction
To date, there is a lively debate about the use of different head-and-neck positions (Hnp’s) in gymnastic training of sport horses. reins are one of the aids to achieve these Hnp’s and with regards to rein tension the fEi rules prescribe “lightness”. Conversely, high rein tension could lead to development of physical disturbances in neck and back function of the horse. objectively quantifying rein tension would contribute to limiting high rein tension, thereby promoting equine welfare. therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate two different training methods to obtain a desired Hnp in unridden horses, the old, ‘classic’ draw reins (Dr) as a static method compared to the newly devel- oped Concord Leader (CCL) as a dynamic method.

Materials and methods
The left and right rein tension of n=11 base-level trained sport horses (age 10±3.2years, mean±SD) was measured when walking with, in random order, Dr or CCL. the desired Hnp was standardized. rein tension was measured at 10Hz for n=6 straight lines per method. Development and validation of the rein tension device has been accomplished at the faculty of Sciences (utrecht university) and reproducibility has been tested using weights. Statistical analysis was performed (paired t-test).

Results
Results showed that the horses experienced lower mean and maximal rein tension with the CCL compared to the Dr (p<0.05). in addition, the percentage of zero tension recorded as simulating “lightness” was significantly higher with the CCL than with the Dr (p<0.05).

Conclusions
In conclusion, the dynamic CCL achieves a similar Hnp with a lower mean and maximal rein tension than the static draw reins, but more importantly with a greater proportion of “lightness”.