Understanding Different Types of Training Aids for Riding

Training aids can be helpful tools when used correctly - improving contact, encouraging a softer frame, or helping your horse balance more effectively under saddle. But with so many different types, from martingales to bungees to draw reins, it's easy to feel unsure about what each one does or whether you need it at all. In this guide, we break down the most common under-saddle training aids, how they work, what they're used for, and key safety tips to keep both you and your horse comfortable and progressing.

1. Martingales 

Martingales are designed to prevent the horse from raising its head too high and evading the rider's contact. 
Types: 

Running Martingale

  • Attaches to girth and splits into two straps with rings for reins to pass through
  • Activates only when the horse raises its head too far
  • Common in jumping/eventing

Standing Martingale

  • One strap from girth to noseband
  • Fixed - applies constant restriction
  • Often used in showing or hunters, not recommended for showjumping 

Best for:

  • Horses that toss their heads or hollow their backs
  • Riders looking to maintain a consistent outline

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2. Draw Reins

Draw reins run from the girth, through the bit rings, and into the rider's hands. They give more direct influence over the horse's head carriage and outline.
Helps:

  • Encourage a rounder frame
  • Improve poll flexion and contact

Use with care:

  • Not for beginners
  • Should be used with regular reins
  • Only in short schooling sessions

Tip: Draw reins can cause overbending or false frames if misused. Always ride with a coach when first learning.

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3. Bungee Reins / Elastic Training Aids

Bungee reins attach from the girth, pass through the bit rings, and over the poll, using elastic tension to gently encourage head lowering and roundness.
Benefits:

  • Soft, elastic pressure - more forgiving than draw reins
  • Encourages correct muscle use
  • Popular for younger horses or rehab work

Ideal for:

  • Young or green horses learning contact
  • Riders who want to avoid harsh restriction

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4. Rein Rite - Encouraging Consistent Contact

The Rein Rite is a unique, elastic-based training aid designed to promote correct head carriage and steady contact under saddle. Unlike rigid tools, it uses elastic resistance to encourage the horse to accept the contact and self-balance.
Benefits:

  • Encourages the horse to stretch into the bridle
  • Promotes straightness and softness
  • Can be used in flatwork, jumping, or schooling young horses

Especially useful for:

  • Green horses still developing balance
  • Horses that avoid consistent contact or throw their heads

The Rein Rite gently encourages engagement without creating a fixed or forced position.

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5. CWD Gogue - Encouraging Elevation & Balance

The CWD Gogue is a modern take on a classical training aid that encourages the horse to lift its forehand and engage its topline, without forcing the head down. It's ideal for horses that are heavy on the forehand or need to develop a stronger outline.
Benefits:

  • Encourages self-carriage and elevation
  • Avoids overbending or nose-behind-the-vertical
  • Especially useful for advanced flatwork and dressage schooling

Used by:

  • Riders looking to refine contact
  • Horses who brace or lean into the reins

Note: The Gogue should only be used under supervision or by experienced riders, as it applies pressure on both the poll and bit depending on head position.

Explore the CWD Gogue 

Safety Tips for Using Training Aids

  1. Start with a coach or trainer - improper use can lead to tension, resistance, or even injury
  2. Never use training aids as a substitute for schooling - they are tools to support correct riding, not replace it
  3. Watch your horse's reaction - tail swishing, tension, or head tossing may indicate discomfort
  4. Limit duration - use them during warm-up or for short periods within a ride
  5. Check fit regularly - gear should not rub, pinch, or restrict movement unnaturally

Do You Need Training Aids?

Not every horse or rider needs training aids - and they're most effective when used temporarily to correct a specific issue (e.g. hollowing, lack of contact, tension).
If your horse:

  • Evades the bit
  • Struggles to stretch or engage
  • Lacks consistency in the frame

…a correctly chosen training aid may support your schooling. But the key is to always pair them with balanced, educated riding and feel.

Final Thoughts

Training aids like the ReinRite, CWD Gogue, or draw reins can offer tremendous benefits when used correctly and thoughtfully. By choosing the right tool for your horse's current needs - and combining it with good riding - you can build softness, strength, and balance over time. 

Still unsure which aid suits your horse best?
Chat with our experienced team or email info@equijumpltd.com - we're happy to help you choose the right system.

Shop all training aids Here

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