Once you are on the horse and ready to ride, you need to grab the “steering wheel” so you can steer the horse. Of course it’s not a real steering wheel like a car, you will be holding two straps of leather or nylon. They are called reins.
There are a few different rein-holds, but chances are in a beginning lesson at Flying G we will be teaching you the English Rein-hold.
The rein will pass between your pinky and ring finger, up over your index finger and held with your thumb. Think of holding an ice-cream cone!
Refer to the picture below:
This is also referred to as direct reining. As you progress in your lessons you may learn indirect reining or Western reining.