Contrary to our hypothesis, we did not find a difference in the number of conflict behaviours as a result of the three treatments. However, we did find more desirable head-relative-to-withers scores for horses ridden in martingales compared with the other two treatments. The martingale treatment had the highest mean rein tension of the three treatments. However, with these novice riders, none of the mean rein tensions would be considered ‘high’. If it can be demonstrated that horses ridden more correctly are likely to experience greater performance longevity, more correct muscle development and improved back comfort, then well-fitted running martingales have the potential to enhance the welfare of lesson horses being ridden by novice riders. Based on the relatively low rein tensions used by novice riders in this study, there was no benefit gained from using elasticised rein inserts.