The Overlooked Importance of Bits

I have discussed how to utilize a western saddle correctly and how it is one of the most misunderstood methods of horse communication. If the use of the saddle is one of the most misunderstood aspects of modern horse ownership, then the right choice and use of bits must be the most perplexing. In reality, I have discovered that far too many trainers lack the expertise necessary to impart to their pupils the value of bit use and understanding in this area of dealing with horses.

The majority of people nowadays believe they don't have the time or resources to study all there is to know about bits, but in truth, it all begins in the rider's hands. They want to build a decent pair of hands, or what I refer to as "soft hands," which will really encourage you to learn more about how to handle bits properly, which will then result in the improvement of a seat and permit further advancement. The beginning of being a "Horseman" is how individuals become knowledgeable horse owners.

There is a saying I use often when working with horses: "There is no one-size-fits-all solution," and this is true in the case of bits as well. The bit that came with your horse when you bought it may not be the greatest bit for it, and here's why. In addition to each bit fitting and setting differently within the horse's mouth, all bits also behave differently in the mouth of a horse. Each bit also functions slightly differently from the others.

A new pair of boots for you is the finest illustration I can think of. You examine them carefully and decide that they are the greatest boots you can get after looking at them. The next step is to put them on, and you'll be surprised to learn that they don't feel nice and are uncomfortable once you're standing in them. Let's face it, you start to feel annoyed, unhappy, and anxious, and all you want is to take those boots off. Are you beginning to see where I'm heading with this?

You made the choice of those boots, thinking it would be a nice one, but they weren't the right ones for you. Even though they looked fantastic while they were on the rack, wearing them was a very other experience. The bit that works for your horse must be selected by the horse as they are the ones who must wear it, just like you must do.

Let's quickly review the steps required in introducing the horse to the bit and the amount of time necessary to produce what is referred to as a completed horse. A completed bridle horse might take two to four years to make correctly and entirely. Therefore, it seems sense that the bit being used would be one of the first things to be checked when a horse that should be calm and easy to get along with begins to get irritated, uncomfortable, or restless.

One of the first ways to broaden your understanding of horsemanship is to learn how bits function as well as how to properly fit the bit to the horse's mouth. Learning how to take one small stride may result in a ride that is lot more pleasurable, a greater connection between you and your horse, and a horse that is easier to get along with.

Ride for the Brand till the next time.

The thousands of horses I have had the honor to meet, learn from, and be let into their owners' life are the focus of my work with horses and owners. I now have the knowledge of their world and how I had to change my thinking and behavior in order to become like them thanks to their acceptance. These horses first served as my customers before evolving into friendships, instructors, and eventually mentors.