How to Attach a Running Martingale

A running martingale, also known as "training forks" in western equine disciplines, is a piece of tack that serves two purposes. It prevents the reins being thrown over the horse's head in the event of an accident. It also helps the rider maintain control of the horse by adding extra leverage to the reins when the horse attempts to raise its head too high. Fitting a running martingale for the first time can be a little tricky.

Things You'll Need

  • Running martingale
  • Bridle with snaffle bit and rein-stops.
  • Saddle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the bridle on the horse.

    • 2

      Identify the neck-strap of the martingale; it forms a circle when buckled. Place the neck-strap around the horse's lower neck, buckle it and let it rest against the shoulders. The two rings should be to the front and the single looped breast strap to the rear. Ensure there is room to insert a hand's width between neck-strap and horse.

    • 3

      Saddle the horse as usual. Before securing the girth, thread it through the looped breast-strap, which will pass between the front legs. Adjust the length of the martingale by holding the rings vertically -- they should be level with the horse's withers, no shorter.

    • 4

      Undo the reins at the buckle and pass each through its corresponding martingale ring. Make sure the rein-stops are between the rings and bit to prevent the rings sliding too far along the reins.