What is a running martingale for horses used for?

Answer by  SallyManda (308)

Running martingales are used to help control a horses head carriage. Proper head carriage is important for a horse's balance and for proper control of the horse. They can be used as training devices, and even in competitions in some disciplines. Running martingales can be seen in jumping and eventing.

Answer by  LaurieF (211)

A running martingale is used to prevent a horse from evading the action of the bit by throwing his nose up in the air. Properly adjusted, the running martingale will have no action until and unless the horse throws his nose up.

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

It's for horses that toss their head around. The running Martingale is better than a tie down. Unlike a Tie down your horse is free to move his head about. However, if your horse was tho toss his head up in the air pressure is applied to the bit so he keeps his head down.

Answer by  case (1261)

This is used as a training tool to teach the horse how to properly hold it's head and to accept the bit. It is used in all riding disciplines and mostly used paired with the snaffle bit.

Answer by  Zuzu (200)

A running martingale helps to give the rider leverage on a horse who is a puller. Used in conjunction with an eggbutt snaffle, it's a more humane way to gain more control than a harsher bit.

Answer by  MissSophie86 (62)

You can see it mostly on jumping horses. If the horse keeps the head in the right position, the martingale doesnt affect the freedom or movement of the head.

Answer by  joebum (14)

in allows the horse to be trained while passengering. the horse needs to be tamed for other riders and the running martingale has greatly helped with my horses confidence, they have been more compliant and tolerant of other more inexperienced riders. Others who have riden since have been impressed with the results.