The best performers crouch to pivot flat. The maneuvers demand a balanced horse which propels himself from the hindquarters. He changes leads without moving his topline, and he collects and extends through the pattern. He bursts into a full gallop for the rundown, and then, to slide, bends in the loin and back. As he slides, his tail drags on the ground behind his braced hind feet.
Judges look for consistent runs that approach the ideal.
Judges score each maneuver according to this vision, with an average score of 70 points. NRHA judges will disqualify an unsound, unfit horse, including the horse which is lame or shows signs of fresh injury. An equipment judge inspects entries for illegal equipment. Riders must drop horses' bits for inspection. Built To Rein Winning reining horses display correct stock horse conformation.