BITS are part of a system of aids used by the rider to communicate with the horse. The seat and leg aids should always precede the hand aid to achieve harmony and lightness from the horse. The effect of the bit is directly related to the type used, the level and balance of the horse and rider, condition of the horse’s teeth and conformation of the horse’s mouth.

The bars are the area in the horse’s mouth where a bit communicates pressures to the horse most effectively. These are tissue-covered sensitive cartilage on either side of the jaw between the front and back teeth (Figure 1). Between the bars, the bit lies across and presses on the horse’s tongue. Different bits may also apply pressure on the horse’s lips, roof of mouth, poll, nose and curb groove.