NRHA Pattern Practice

NRHA Pattern Practice

16 Seasons

Select the pattern you need to work on and learn how to ace every maneuver from our coaches. Bud Lyon, Ryan Rushing, and more break down every move in the pattern and give drills to help you prep for your next reining pattern. This series provides in-depth instruction on executing key NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) maneuvers, including spins, sliding stops, lead changes, and circles. Expert trainers break down each pattern, offering step-by-step guidance, strategy tips, and troubleshooting techniques to help riders refine their skills. Whether you're preparing for competition or simply aiming to improve your reining performance, "NRHA Pattern Practice" delivers valuable insights to enhance communication between horse and rider, ensuring smoother, more controlled runs in the show pen.

Subscribe Share
NRHA Pattern Practice
  • Teaching Young Reining Horse to Turn

    Episode 1

    Building off the sidepass exercise, Peter DeFreitas demonstrates how he starts teaching young reining horses how to turn. He focuses on keeping his horse square and between his legs so that the turn stays tight and organized.

  • Teaching Young Reining Horse to Move Off Your Leg

    Episode 2

    Peter DeFreitas demonstrates how he starts teaching his young reining horses to side pass. He explains how and why he uses the fence lines to help facilitate the exercise as well as when to use your leg and rein aids.

  • Going Around the Ends of the Arena

    Episode 3

    Peter DeFreitas explains the importance of riding your horse around the ends of the arena.He demonstrates a drill he likes to use to help keep his horse's shoulders straight and her neck in the correct position as he makes a turn.

  • Downward Transitions in the Reining

    Episode 4

    Peter DeFreitas discusses the three ways he cues downward transitions in reining.

  • Flying Lead Change Body Control

    Episode 5

    Before you attempt a flying lead change, you need to make sure that you have total control of your horse's body. NRHA Professional Keith Ceddia shows you how he gains control in his horse's body before asking for a flying lead change.

  • Correcting the Slow-Down Transition

    Episode 6

    When you ask your horse to go from a fast lope to a slower one, your horse should respond almost immediately to the cue. If he doesn't, try this drill from Ryan Rushing.