Hands should be held in an easy position, neither perpendicular nor horizontal to the saddle, and should show sympathy, adaptability, and control. Height of hands above horse's withers is determined by how and where horse carries its head. Figure 6 shows the most common position of holding the reins with snaffle on outside of curb reins and bight on right side of horse. Elbows should be held at sides in natural position, neither in too tight nor out too far. Addressing the reins.
Judges sometimes use tests of horsemanship in deciding final placings.
With the reins on horse's neck they are picked up according to Figure 7 and held as shown in Figure 6. Basic position in saddle. Much of the success of good riders can be attributed to their mastery of this position. To take a basic position, sit comfortably in the center of the saddle with inside of knees and thighs contacting saddle, feet and legs hanging under the body in a relaxed, natural position. Properly adjusted stirrups will rest between ankles and insteps of the feet, depending on the build of the rider.