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Abitting rig orbitting harness ishorse tack used to train a horse to accept thebit or achieve a particular head carriage.[1]: 453 [2]: 23 It is also used with in-hand showing.[3]: 304 Generally used in conjunction with training on alonge line, it is often seen in the training ofsaddle seat horses, but also is used by somedressage trainers and as a tool to start horses indriving.
A basic bitting rig consists of asurcingle (also known as a roller) that has a number of rings on either side, placed at varying heights, usually with acrupper to prevent the surcingle from being pulled forward. Abridle is also part of a bitting rig, withside reins and rings or small pulleys on either side of the browband to accommodate abearing rein. Some variations use pulleys and leverage on side reins to create a given "headset." Other designs add straps resemblingbreeching on the hindquarters to encourage engagement of the horse's rear end.
The use of only a surcingle and side reins, a common component in basichorse training across all equestrian disciplines, is not usually considered a "bitting rig." It is the use of additional reins such as the overcheck, or the use of leverage to place the horse's head in a set position that turns a classic surcingle into a bitting rig.
Both a bitting rig and a classic surcingle with side reins are intended only to be used whilelongeing a horse. They are not to be used on a horse that is standing in a stall (though this is a very common type of misuse), nor are they used while riding. However, the surcingle and side reins are used as safety tools in the sport ofequestrian vaulting.
While a surcingle and side reins are considered classical training tools, the use of the full bitting rig is controversial in some circles. The basic debate is whether the use of the check reins or any other rein setup other than the classic side rein is unnatural and develops incorrect musculature in the neck, back, and hindquarters. Like any tool, a bitting rig can be overused, leading to soreness and fatigue in the horse, and in some cases, improper use may teach a horse to lean on the bit and develop a hard mouth rather than relaxing and giving to it. Misuse can also lead to a horse that holds its head in a set position, but fails to properly engage the hindquarters and learn propercollection. Proponents argue that it safely teaches a horse a correct head position and gently accustoms a horse to what will be expected of it when carrying a rider.
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