Learn Reining
What is Reining?
As one of the most thrilling equestrian sports, reining represents the peak of western horsemanship. From fast spins to thrilling sliding stops, reining is a western equestrian sport that displays the willingness of a horse to listen to its rider and perform a set pattern of maneuvers at speed.
The basis of reining comes from A General, written by Jim Willoughby back in 1966 when the governing body for the sport of reining, the NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) was formed.
A General
To rein a horse is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement. The best reined horse should be willingly guided or controlled with little or no apparent resistance And dictated to completely.
A General
To rein a horse is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement. The best reined horse should be willingly guided or controlled with little or no apparent resistance And dictated to completely.
NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) is the official governing and standard setting body for the sport of reining. The goal of the NRHA is to promote the sport of reining globally and they do so by setting standards for the sport, certifying judges and stewards, advertising, and hosting the NRHA Futurity and the NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City annually.
What are the reining maneuvers?
Reining is a judged event broken up into a series of 8 to 10 maneuver groups. Read below to learn about each maneuver, and then continue reading to learn how these maneuvers are judged in competitions.
How is reining judged?
The reining judging system is unique. Originally developed in 1985 the system starts every horse with a score of 70, then each maneuver is given a maneuver score ranging from -1 1/2 to +1 1/2 going in 1/2 point increments with 0 being average. After that any penalties are deducted from the maneuver. At the end of the run the score are added up, penalties deducted and the final score is announced.
What are
categories, classes, levels and eligibility?
Learn the structure of a reining show so you’ll know which class(es) to enter you and your horse in.
This Right Here is the History of Reining
We are nothing without our history. Learn about the founding of reining, the members who shaped the sport, and the moments that will live on forever.
5 Steps to Get Started in REINING
STEP 1
Learn the sport.
You’re already doing that here! Go through all of the resources offered here and lean the sport so you can get started.
STEP 2
Become a member of NRHA.
Click the link below and follow the prompts to sign up for an NRHA membership.
STEP 3
Find a Pro
Once you’ve become a member the next thing you need is to assemble you team starting with your NRHA professional.
STEP 4
Buy a Horse.
Now that you have a team of professionals assembled its time to use them to help you find the perfect first reiner.
STEP 5
Live the Reining Life
You’ve made it! Go enjoy the shows, the people, the atmosphere and everything else that this lifestyle has to offer.
Join the Reining Life!
Join our growing community and stay updated on all things Reining Life!
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