What is reining in?

Reining is a western riding competition that involves the performance of an intricate pattern of various maneuvers, typically performed at a gallop or high-speed lope. One of the key elements of reining is the rider's ability to "rein in" the horse, which refers to the use of the reins to control the horse's speed, gait, and direction.

Reining patterns typically include maneuvers such as circles, spins, slides, stops, and rollbacks, all of which require precise control and coordination between the rider and horse. The rider must be able to use the reins to communicate with the horse, giving subtle cues to adjust speed, direction, and gait.

In addition to the use of the reins, riders may also use their body position, weight, and leg cues to communicate with the horse. This requires a great deal of skill and expertise, as reining requires a high level of precision and accuracy.

Reining competitions are judged based on the execution of the pattern and the quality of the horse's movement, including responsiveness, willingness, and athleticism. The rider's ability to rein in the horse and execute the required maneuvers with precision and control is a key factor in achieving a high score in reining competitions.