Chambon

See Also: Draw Reins, Running Reins, Market Harborough and the De Gogue.

Chambon
The Chambon is used for lunging only to assist in muscle development along the back and topline.

Use
The Chambon is a training device that is used to encourage the horse to lower their head and necks and stretch out through their backs to encourage correct muscle development, relaxation and suppleness.

Action

When the horse raises their head the Chambon comes into action causing the bit to be lifted upwards through pressure being applied on the poll, bars, corners and tongue.
In order to release the pressure the horse has to lower their head and necks and therefore stretch down.
When used correctly the Chambon can greatly help to build up a horses back and top line muscles as well as encouraging muscle relaxation which can be of benefit especially after injury for example.

Fitting

The Chambon attaches to a roller and runs through the horses front legs and up through the chest. From here the Chambon splits into two pieces each with a buckle adjustment.
The Chambon then changes from leather to cord. Each piece of cord then runs up to the poll on either side of the horses head.
The Chambon is attached to the bridle at the headpiece where a pulley system allows the Chambon to freely slide from the poll down the horses cheek before clipping on to the upper part of each of the bit rings.

How To Use

The Chambon should only be used by experienced trainers.
Suitably warm the horse up on the lunge before attaching the Chambon.
The buckle adjustment should be set at a length to suit each individual horse.
If set either too tight or too loose then the Chambon will not work correctly.
If uncertain then seek professional advice.

Safety

Seek professional advice if you are uncertain or have not used a Chambon before.
Your horse should be wearing front and hind brushing boots and over reach boots.
A snaffle bridle should be used.
If you are using a saddle instead of a roller then secure the stirrups to avoid them from becoming loose.