Training Aids for Beginners and Professionals

Training aids are part of the basic equipment for many riders in daily training – whether you're just starting out or already experienced in the saddle. Their purpose is to improve your horse's posture in a targeted way without applying pressure or restricting natural movement.

When used correctly, they promote consistent contact and help stabilize your horse's head carriage. This not only makes communication between you and your horse clearer, but also supports relaxation – a key foundation for successful and healthy training.

With time, the deliberate use of training aids supports muscle development and improves your horse’s balance. It's important to understand that training aids do not work independently but only through the connection with the rider’s hand. As a rider, you are responsible for using them with sensitivity and awareness.

There are different types of training aids – from side reins to sliding reins, Chambon or Gogue. Each has its own purpose and can be individually adapted to your horse’s level of training and training goals. This allows you to specifically support what your horse needs at any given time.

Whether lunging or in the saddle – with the right training aid, you have a valuable tool to bring more harmony and structure into your daily work with your horse.

Using Training Aids Effectively in Daily Work

To ensure training aids are effective and horse-friendly during training, correct adjustment is essential. A training aid can only fulfil its function when properly fitted, without affecting the horse’s well-being. Make sure your horse has enough freedom of movement and doesn't feel restricted.

The duration of use should be limited to avoid disturbing natural movement patterns. Especially during the warm-up phase, your horse should be allowed to move freely and loosely. Extended training with fixed posture can lead to tension over time.

While lunging, sliding reins or side reins are often used, as they specifically activate the back muscles and encourage the horse to stretch. It’s important to regularly check the adjustment since tension may change during movement.

During riding, training aids can also help to clarify contact with the horse’s mouth. In combination with a steady, calm rider’s hand, they enhance communication and promote relaxation. This helps your horse to build trust and focus better on the task.

A solid education is crucial. Only if you know when and how to use training aids can you fully benefit from their effects. Expert guidance also helps you identify and correct potential mistakes early on.

Additionally, a well-fitting breastplate with soft padded sheepskin parts offers extra support without causing pressure points. This ensures that your gear is perfectly matched to your horse and stays in place without rubbing or slipping.

What to Look for When Choosing Training Aids

When selecting the right training aids for your horse, it's not just about the type but also the quality of materials. Leather or soft rubber are known for their durability and comfortable feel – perfect for everyday use in training.

Soft padding at sensitive areas like the poll or chest is especially important to prevent chafing and pressure. These elements protect your horse’s skin and ensure a more comfortable wearing experience.

Adjustability allows you to tailor the training aids individually to your horse. This not only makes them easier to put on but also ensures an optimal fit for different training levels and body types.

Strong hardware and solid craftsmanship provide safety in your daily routine. Make sure all stitching is secure and there are no weak points that could tear under strain.

Anatomically shaped models follow your horse's natural movement and support a consistent motion pattern. This enhances relaxation and increases comfort while wearing.

Many riders prefer easy-care options – they’re simple to clean after training and remain presentable even with frequent use. Especially when using a closed martingale fork, it’s worth choosing a model that’s easy to maintain.

A well-chosen training aid for your horse not only gives you more control in training but also a better understanding of your horse’s needs. Quality, fit and function should always be a top priority.

Stylish and Well-Designed

Modern training aids stand out not only for their functionality but also for a thoughtful and stylish design. They integrate seamlessly into your tack and emphasize your professional approach to training.

Subtle colors and elegant fittings ensure the training aids match any riding outfit – whether for daily rides or in competition. Combined with fine leatherwork, they create a high-quality appearance that enhances your tack.

Practical details like clip fasteners allow for easy attachment and removal – particularly useful when things need to move quickly. This keeps handling simple without compromising safety.

Brands like Schockemöhle Sports combine quality with style and stand for durable products you can rely on in your daily training. Whether it’s breastplates for your horse or training aids – design and craftsmanship align down to the smallest detail.

Even when it comes to a side rein for your horse, design matters: clean lines, balanced proportions, and harmonious materials result in a cohesive product that perfectly unites functionality and aesthetics.

That way, you get equipment that’s not only practical but also meets your high visual standards – for training that excels in every way.

What Types of Training Aids Are There and How Do They Differ?

Training aids like breastplates, side reins, martingales, or sliding reins all follow different principles and areas of use. Depending on your training goals, you can choose the model that supports your horse best.

• Side reins provide lateral limitation and stabilize your horse’s head-neck position.
• Sliding reins encourage the horse to give at the poll and adopt a correct frame – make sure to adjust sliding reins properly without restricting movement.
• A martingale works especially well with a high head carriage and prevents the horse from evading rein aids – perfect when you're wondering: what is a martingale for?
• A Gogue is a special training aid that promotes both elevation and stretching, while encouraging hind leg engagement – the Gogue training aid is especially useful in advanced work.
• The breastplate helps stabilize the saddle and serves as an anchor for certain rein aids – with the breastplate, safety and function are equally important.

Each of these training aids is tailored to specific disciplines or training goals. To support your horse correctly and ensure its well-being, proper application and the right type are crucial.

For Every Riding Style and Training Goal

Whether dressage, jumping, or lunging – for every discipline, there’s a training aid that helps you and your horse progress. A wide range of options lets you adapt perfectly to your needs and achieve the best results.

Young horses benefit particularly from controlled support through training aids as they provide guidance and safety during their development. Choosing the right model and application is essential – for example, make sure to adjust sliding reins correctly to maintain a healthy frame.

Both leisure and ambitious competition riders will find options to suit their needs – from classic elegance to modern sportiness or practical durability. There’s a solution for every training scenario.

The variety extends from simple models for beginners to advanced systems for professionals. Learning how to adjust Lauffer reins takes a bit of practice, but allows for very precise aid-giving in advanced training.

A structured training plan becomes far more effective with the right training aids. They provide structure for you and clarity for your horse – making everyday training more enjoyable for both.

Support for Rider and Horse

Training aids are among the most versatile tools in equestrian sports and support your work on posture, contact, and your horse’s balance. They provide guidance and help make your training more focused and efficient.

Choosing the right one depends on your riding style, your training goals, and your horse’s personality. A well-fitted martingale is ideal for horses that tend to evade the reins – especially in jump training.

At Schockemöhle, comfort, quality, and safety are top priorities. Durable materials, soft padding, and smart craftsmanship ensure long life and pleasant wear. Especially with jumping breastplates, it’s crucial that nothing slips or restricts your horse’s movement.

Thanks to a wide range of options, you can tailor training aids to your specific goals – from dressage to jumping to groundwork. Thoughtful details and practical design make your gear not just functional, but also a stylish addition to your riding routine.

Discover high-quality training aids in our shop and take your training to the next level – for you and your horse.