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.

Understanding bit and bridle pressures will help riders select the an appropriate set up for their horse, ensuring comfort and effective communication.

An overview of the types of pressures applied by bits:

Every bit is composed of 2 main elements, the mouthpiece and the cheek pieces. The mouthpiece is the part of the bit that sits inside the mouth, and the cheek pieces sit outside the mouth against the lips and cheeks of the horse.

Mouthpieces:

• Bar Pressure: Applied to the bars of the horse's mouth (the sensitive gaps between molars and incisors). Bar pressure is fundamental to bitting and helps in guiding movement and creating contact.
• Tongue Pressure: Exerted directly on the horse's tongue, usually in the centre, this pressure influences how the horse responds and maintains contact with the bit.
• Pinch Pressure: The nutcracker action, most extreme in single jointed bits, adds pressure to the bars at the corners of the mouth.
• Palate Pressure: Exerted on the roof of the mouth. The palate is quite sensitive, so this type of pressure can be quite impactful.

Cheekpieces:

• Lip and Cheek Pressure: Lateral pressure external to the mouth, applied to the horse's lips and cheeks. Often used to cue directional movements and steering.
• Curb (Chin Groove) Pressure: Applied to the chin groove via a curb chain or strap, this pressure works in combination with other points.
• Poll Pressure: Exerted on the poll (area directly behind the ears), poll pressure influences the horse's head position and movement.

The Impact of Pressure

While all of these pressures can be useful for communication between horse and rider, it's fundamental to recognize that excessive or inconsistent pressure will result in discomfort and behavioral issues.

True harmony is best achieved by using the minimum amount of pressure necessary to communicate effectively. That is the fundamental principle of bit fitting.