Using whips correctly in equestrian sports

If you are concerned about whether using a whip is uncomfortable for the animal, then the most important thing to know is how to use it correctly. Because then the horse knows exactly what you mean by these "signals" and both you and the animal enjoy working together.

There are many different riding crops

Equestrian crops are available in different lengths and different materials. The core of a riding crop is usually made of a flexible fiberglass rod that is wrapped with plastic.

• In show jumping riders usually use short whips, in dressage longer ones are used. If you are riding tournaments, you should find out beforehand what length the whips are allowed, as this is often subject to restrictions. You can find detailed information on the Performance examination regulations (Abbreviation LPO).
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• If you want to buy a new riding crop, you should not only pay attention to the styling, but also also that the handle is anatomically correct so that you can hold it well in the rider's hand can. Knobs and corrugated areas make it easier to hold in the hand. If you frequently change the hand that is holding the whip, you should do without a loop.
• The lower end of the whip is often provided with stiffened cords or with a wider swat made of leather or plastic. Which variant you prefer is up to you, because when used correctly, it is the know-how that decides and not the design of the equipment.


Learn to show jumping

As a rider you will find your main focus in equestrian sport over time. Not only that …

• If you are a beginner with a whip and do not yet really know how to use these aids, then your whip should have a length of approximately four feet. Choose a whip that is not too soft, otherwise the whip will bob in time and the horse's body will be unintentionally touched all the time. At the same time, of course, the device must also have a certain elasticity so that you can use it effectively and purposefully even with the smallest touch.

Correct handling of the devices is important

• Do not take hold of the dressage whip right at the top, but place your grip closer to the center of gravity of the whip. The bottom of the whip should be pointing downwards at an angle to your thigh.
• Be careful not to interfere with your hand in the horse's mouth. Avoid the mistake of pulling in the mouth when you start to hand the whip, not taking your hand off the rein or, at the moment when your horse reacts, pulling fearfully as a backlash.

Note the touching points of the horse

The rider can use the crop in different places on the horse. Usually the flank of the horse's body is chosen, preferably quite close to where you use your lower leg as a driving aid.

• Young Horses are also easy to drive if you use the crop on the shoulder in front.
• You can also use the crop correctly by briefly touching the horse's shoulder. So you can give support for the keeping or right or left driving help.
• When working on the ground with your horse, the crop can be helpful if you have the right one Touch points To know.

The crop is the extension of your arm

The correct use of the device is shown above all in your dosed sensitivity. If you ask the horse briefly and precisely, you will achieve more than if you just “tap” it lightly. The most important thing is to teach the horse a certain respect for the whip so that it is clear and clearly recognizes what you want and also reacts fearlessly to the help of the device can. Actually hitting the horse with the whip is of course forbidden.

• The easiest way to use the device correctly is to imagine that it is simply an extension of your arm.
• Usually, the use of the whip is correct and necessary when your horse has not been ridden, so that you can support the driving forces of thighs and weight.
• The use of a whip is a finely dosed aid. Basically, you should always “ask” the animal first by clicking the button. If the animal does not react, you should “demand” by increasing your thigh pressure and, if necessary, giving the spores. If the animal still does not react, you must “kick the door in”: then the whip is used.

In this way you can sensitize your horse to the equipment

• If your horse does not react to the whip, you should make him aware of the whip. This means that if it doesn't show any reaction the first time, then you do your second bet harder.
• If that doesn't help, you should also step up the third mission. When the animal understands this, it will accept your help more quickly.
• Do not forget to praise the horse after the reaction has taken place by removing the whip, twisting the spurs, putting your hand forward and expressing praise in a satisfied, authoritarian voice.