Reining is a competitive equestrian sport that showcases a horse's ability to perform precise maneuvers while being guided by a rider. It originated from the working practices of cattle herding and emphasizes the horse's responsiveness to subtle cues. Competitors are judged on their performance in a series of patterns that include spins, stops, and circles, demonstrating the horse's agility and training.
In reining competitions, riders often use a Western saddle and bridle, reflecting the sport's roots in Western riding traditions. Events are typically held in an arena, and riders are scored based on their execution of the required maneuvers, with higher scores awarded for accuracy and style.