Every horse should be trained with a snaffle bit which fits into the corners
of the lips. There are no nerves here and it affords the rider a fluid
communication with the horse to position him correctly. At higher levels ,
after having learned the technical requirments
the full bridle is used to refine the movements. It is considered a mark of
the highest horsemanship to be able to show the horse in a double bridle
which includes a snaffle and a curb and two sets of reins.
The purpose of the curb is to flex the horse at the poll and lower the neck.
The purpose of the snaffle is to elevate the forehand to help transfer
weight to the hindquarters. Good upper level riders can use one bit or both
as needed and will always go back to the snaffle bridle to teach the horse
new movements or resolve a problem.
As for endurance horses, the conditioning process should always include
obedience and flexibility exercises. A horse which is inflexible is likely
to become more tense and disobedient in stressful situations. This work
needs to be done in a snaffle rather than a hackamore or halter in order to
work the sides of the horse individually.
A good Arab (and Morgan) should be able to do all things well.
Beverley Fields