Riding the perfect change of rein

When you hear the words ‘change of rein’ you’ll probably be transported back to your instructor talking to you in a riding lesson. But what really is a change of rein, why is it important and how do you do it? Let’s find out…

What is a change of rein?

When riding in an arena, you either ride on the left rein or the right rein. You can tell which rein you’re on by which hand is on the inside – if you’re on the left rein, your left hand will be nearest the middle of the arena. 

A change of rein is simply when you change the direction that you’re riding around the arena. There are lots of different ways you can change the rein, for example down the centre line, on the short or long diagonals, or by riding a loop. 

Top tip

When you sit for two beats to change your diagonal, think about allowing your hips to flow with your pony’s movement to avoid bouncing in the saddle and disrupting his rhythm.

Why do we change the rein?

Changing the rein when you’re schooling your pony’s really important because it affects how evenly he’s working. If you ride on one rein all the time or more than the other, his muscles will develop more on one side, which will make him wonky and stiff. 

Knowing how to ride the perfect change of rein – this means keeping a consistent rhythm and riding accurately to the markers – is also key when it comes to dressage because you’ll find this move in every test. 

How to ride a perfect change of rein

Before we learn how to ride a good change of rein, let’s look at the options for where you can do it…

• on a long diagonal – eg from M to K or H to F
• on a short diagonal – eg from M to E or B to H
• down the centre line (A to C) and across the centre of the arena side (E to B)
• anywhere on a loop! 

Don’t forget that the changes of rein between markers can be ridden in opposite directions, so there really is a lot of choice! 

As you prepare to make any change of rein, turn your upper body and look to the direction you’re going. Flex your inside rein to ask your pony to bend and focus on where he’s going, keep your outside rein close to his neck to support his shoulder and then squeeze with both legs.

If you’re riding a loop, maintain the bend until you’re ready to straighten up and ride towards the track. If you’re riding a straight line change of rein, keep your leg pressure and rein contact even to channel your pony forwards. Don’t forget to change your diagonal, too – if you ride over X on your change of rein, this is where you’ll do it. Keep your pony moving forwards towards the track then prepare to ride him around the turn or corner again – and there you have it, a perfect change of rein. 

Top tip

By doing lots of changes of rein, your pony will stay focused on you. Mixing it up is much more exciting for him than trotting round and round the arena.

Aced it!

Riding a change of rein is simple once you’ve got the hang of it and know where you’re going. Just remember to keep your pony moving forwards to maintain his rhythm and balance. You’ll be acing it before you know it!

Want more great tips on changing the rein? Check out this video with Phoebe Peters!

Or  have a look at more of our flatwork tips here!

Download our handy guide

Not sure where to change the rein or lacking inspo? Download our handy guide with diagrams.