Bit Pressures
Understanding Bit Pressure and Its Effects on Horses
Bits are a crucial part of most bridle set ups, and they come in an enormous array of designs that apply different types of pressure to a horse's mouth and head.
The physiological influence of the bit cannot be overstated, with the nerves and muscles of the head and tongue being connected directly and indirectly to the ventral, and even dorsal musculature of the entire body.
The influence extends far beyond head carriage to all aspects of equestrianism, and riders bear a responsibility to make their horses as comfortable as possible in their work.
Understanding bit and bridle pressures will help riders select the an appropriate set up for their horse, ensuring comfort and effective communication. Please reach out to us if you have any questions about any of the issues raised in this article.
An overview of the types of pressures applied by bits:
Every bit is composed of 2 main elements, the mouthpiece and the cheek pieces. As the names suggest the mouthpiece is the part of the bit that sits inside the mouth, and the cheek pieces outside the mouth against the lips and cheeks of the horse.
Mouthpieces and cheek pieces obviously apply pressure to the horse in different ways, so it is important to not only consider these different pressures but also how they will combine in a given bit to affect the horse.
Mouthpieces:
- Bar Pressure: This is applied to the bars of the horse's mouth, which are the sensitive gaps or interdental space, between the molars and incisors. Bar pressure is a fundamental aspect of bitting and helps in guiding the horse's movement, and creating the all important contact.
- Tongue Pressure: Exerted directly on the horse's tongue, usually in the centre, this pressure will influence how the horse responds and maintains contact with the bit.
-Pinch Pressure: The nutcracker action, most extreme in a single jointed bit that adds pressure to the bars at the corners of the mouth, often lifting the head.
- Palate Pressure: This is exerted on the roof of the mouth, known as the palate. The palate is quite sensitive, so this type of pressure can be quite impactful. It was historically used quite a lot, but thankfully is now rare, (at least intentionally.)
Cheekpieces
- Lip and cheek Pressure: This generally refers to lateral pressure external to the mouth and applied to the horse’s lips and cheeks, this pressure is often used to cue directional movements and can help in steering.
- Curb (Chin Groove) Pressure: Applied to the chin groove via a curb chain or strap, this pressure works in combination with other points, often including the poll, to control the horse.
- Poll Pressure: Exerted on the poll, the area directly behind the ears, poll pressure influences the horse's head position and movement.
Eg: An eggbutt 2 ½ ring happy tongue will offer consistent even bar pressure, almost no tongue pressure, and zero pinch pressure from the mouthpiece, and some poll and cheek pressure with zero curb pressure from the cheek pieces.
The Impact of Pressure
While all of these pressures can be useful for communication between horse and rider, it's fundamental to recognize that all forms of pressure will lead to some resistance.
Horses are incredibly sensitive animals, and excessive or inconsistent pressure will result in discomfort and eventually behavioral issues to one degree or another.
These issues can manifest as the classic bit evasions, napping, or general unease and disquiet. The benefit to riders and horses from an understanding of these pressures should not be underestimated
Achieving Contact:
As the stewards of our horse, their well being is our responsibility. Prioritizing comfort and minimizing pressure helps ensure a more enjoyable and cooperative experience for both horse and rider. So true harmony is best achieved by using the minimum amount of pressure necessary to communicate effectively. That is the fundamental principle of bit fitting.
Choosing bits designed for comfort and that fit correctly will make your horse more comfortable, and allow training to focus on lightness and responsiveness. This way riders can foster a positive, trusting relationship with their horses.
In essence, understanding how different mouthpieces and cheek pieces apply pressure and the potential impact of these pressures is key to maintaining a harmonious relationship with your horse. Appropriate levels of pressure, when carefully managed, can lead to effective communication without causing unnecessary stress or discomfort. Striving for the minimum pressure necessary not only improves the horse’s comfort but also enhances the overall riding experience. A comfortable horse is a happy horse, and true connection is found in gentle, consistent communication that respects the horse's sensitivity.