Instructions
Select the appropriate bit. To control a horse properly, use a bit that requires minimal effort to make your horse respond. There are all kinds of bits that will provide you with different amounts of control when used properly (see Resources below). Kimberwick bits are some of the strongest made and should be used on some of the most difficult horses. A smooth snaffle bit is one of the least strong bits and should be used on a young horse or a horse that is very well behaved. Keep in mind when picking a bit that there should be some kind of a balance between the horse doing all the work and you doing none.
Fasten the throatlatch and the noseband correctly. Having these two straps fastened with the appropriate tightness will make it easier for you to maintain control. Having the noseband tightened correctly will make the most difference in the amount of control you will have. It will make the bit work more effectively and will remind your horse that you are in control. This will make it harder for her to play with the bit and throw her mouth and head around.
Turn your horse in the desired direction using the bridle as an aid. In order to have control over your horse, you will need to be able to turn and the bit will help you control that process. When you want to turn a sharp right or left, shorten the rein of the direction you want to turn in and pull it towards your belly button. If you want to shift left or right, open the rein of the direction you are turning and pull it out away from you.
Stop your horse by using the bit to hold him back. When you want your horse to come to a stop or to have a downwards transition in gaits, use the bridle to control him. When transitioning downwards, collect reins only a little so you can get faster results. To do this, sit deep, grip your reins and gently ease your shoulders first, then the rest of your arm back. Keep your elbows bent and your hands angled slightly downward. Doing these things while holding the reins tightly will pull the bit back in the horse’s mouth, causing him to switch gaits. If you simply want to slow your horse down but keep him doing the same gait, pull your reins back by moving your elbows backwards, then release, hold and release. The bit will pull against his mouth, forcing his motion to either cease or be slowed.
Set your horse’s head by using the bit to make her flex. Gently moving the bit around in your horse’s mouth causes her to bend her neck and point her nose in. To move the bit around in your horse’s mouth, you will need to have contact with her mouth in your reins and gently squeeze or bump your reins slightly downwards. If your horse is moving forward as you use the bit to set her head, it's properly arched or flexed. If your horse needs to have a more defined head set, using a bit that gives you more leverage will provide the control you need.
How to Control a Horse With a Bridle
Almost every riding horse requires a bridle. A bridle makes it possible to easily ride a horse who has a mind of its own or who is not completely trained. A bridle consists of leather straps and a metal bit. These pieces together are what control the horse, though there is a certain way to control a horse with a bridle that is much more effective than how many amateurs ride.