Sunday, 23 December 2012

Getting Quality Horse Riding Crops Has Many Benefits

By Tony Knepper


Many horse riders make use of riding crops on a daily basis. There are a number of designs that are utilized for different training techniques. The typical crop is usually not long at all. These whips are simply a tool used in the equine sport of riding. They are not there as an added extra but rather as an aid.

The horse is commanded by using the reins, legs or in some cases the voice. A modern day crop is usually made out of fiberglass and it goes from thin and flexible up toward the top where it will have a head of sorts. Many times they are referred to as mushroom heads. Crops can be quite elegant if used correctly.

The crop is used to make light contact with the skin of the horse. It is never to be used in an act of aggression. The animal generally listens to the other aids, and should not be whipped to do a particular action. While training from the ground, a long whip can be used. These are very flexible, and tend to move quite slowly, but reaching out further towards the horse.

Contrary to popular belief, a hunting whip is not applied to reprimand a horse at all. This kind of whip has a kind of hook on it, which is from time to time utilized to open gates and fences from on top of the animal without the need of having to climb off. Connected to this whip are long buckskin strips which help in chasing away the hunting dogs from the horse's legs.

Various disciplines require different crops or whips. The short regular type is used in jumping and equitation. There is no specific length but generally the shorter the whip the more indication that the rider can do his or her job on top of the horse properly.

Choosing a crop or whip must be done wisely. Young children and unskilled riders are not advised to make use of this tool. One must always bare in mind that the horse should never be hurt when utilizing a crop. An important note to remember is that anger is brought about by fear, so always know this and try to stay in control of any surprising situation that may arise.

Occasionally there will be times when the horse you are riding abruptly acts up without reason. In such situations it is best to use a gentle voice and positive reinforcement with your legs. Try to get the task at hand done without any violence. Horses are very sensitive creatures and can feel a tiny fly walking on them, so you can only imagine what a hard smack will feel like to them.

Often, the horse may be a little out of sorts and a gentle reminder can be used via a crop or a whip. Always bare in mind as well, that one should never ever take a crop to a horse while on the ground and holding it by a lead rein. If you are unsure on how to correctly use the various riding crops available, then seek advice from someone with more knowledge and experience.




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