This is attached to the girth, and passes between forelegs. It then divides into two, each of the two ends being fitted with a ring through which the reins are passed. Like the standing martingale, it is supported by a neck-strap.

A running martingale provides a regulating influence on a horse which carries its head too high. It must correctly fitted, so that it only takes effect when the horse raises his head beyond the angle of control. If is fitted too short, its effect is to bring constant pressure on the bars of the mouth, which can result it becoming bruised.

Fitting a Running Martingale

• As a rough guide, when the martingale is attached to the girth and both rings are taken to one side the martingale should be long enough to reach the horse’s withers.
• If used with a double bridle, the rings should be on the curb (bit) rein.
• The reins should be threaded through the rings, so that the rings can run freely up and down the reins.
• The reins should be fitted with ‘stops’ between rings and the bit, to prevent the rings getting caught over the hook billets of the rein, or any of the bit.
• The neck-strap should be fitted as for the standing martingale.
  

A running martingale prevents the horse from lifting his head too high. If you fit the martingale too short it can put constant pressure on the bars of the mouth which can cause bruising. When the martingale is attached to the girth and both rings are taken to one side the martingale should be long enough to reach the horse’s withers.