What purpose does a running martingale have?
REPLY TO BOBBI: You say you think they have a neagative effect, but you don’t say why?
Thanks for adding that Bobbi!
I actually think that their effect is a negative one if used indiscriminately. It’s real purpose is to put pressure on the bit, and the bit in turn relays pressure on the bars of the horses mouth and prevents his head from getting higher than what is safe or good form. One really good thing about a running martingale is it does provide more flex ability and freedom, so if your horse should slip and fall, you can adjust your reins where he can get his balance and so that the pressure is relieved from the bit. I know that in many cases that it is necessary, and even allowed in some classes like jumping, but usually, they are used as training devices…and I personally feel that many trainers go to that as the first choice for head sets, “framing” etc rather than taking the longer but better route of developing a good set of hands and keeping as many contraptions away from between your hands and your horse’s mouth. Just my opinion.
EDIT********sorry Aimee, I had to go answer the phone and out of habit, just clicked submit, I hadn’t finished my answer.
Standing and Running Martingales