Instructions
Tie a loose knot in the end of the reins to prevent them from falling to the ground if dropped. Cross the reins at the base of the horse's neck and gather them both into one hand, making a fist with the reins running up from the bottom. Bring one rein out from the top of your fist and place the other one between your pointer and middle fingers. Adjust the length of the reins so that they are tight enough for the horse to feel your commands but not so tight as to be uncomfortable.
Command your horse to walk on, holding your rein hand waist high and slightly in front of you. The other hand should lie loosely by your side for balance. To have your horse turn left, bring your rein hand over to the left-hand side of its neck so that the right rein touches the horse's neck. The horse should move away from the pressure and turn left. This is called using an "indirect rein."
Hold one rein in each hand so that it runs upward across each hand. You can either bring the rein across your little finger or between your little and ring fingers. Push your thumb down on the top of each rein to keep it from being pulled through your hand.
Command your horse to walk on. Direct your horse to turn left by squeezing the left rein, moving your hand back and out a little. At the same time, apply a little pressure with your left leg. The horse will feel pressure on the left side of the bit and move its head to the left as well as bending its body around your leg to complete the turn. This is called using a "direct rein."
How to Ride With Split Reins
Split reins are seen in Western riding, where each rein consists of an individual strap. The reins are not joined together and are much longer than the closed style of rein, which consists of a single continuous loop. Split reins are designed so that the horse cannot catch its feet in them. Some riders also prefer to use them for safety as they can be grabbed onto in the event of a fall. These reins are harder to handle than the closed type, but there is no need to carry a separate whip as the slack of the rein can be used instead.