{"id":38094,"date":"2026-02-15T12:50:20","date_gmt":"2026-02-15T11:50:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/balotade.com\/continental-gag-pessoa-how-it-works\/"},"modified":"2026-09-03T19:24:05","modified_gmt":"2026-09-03T17:24:05","slug":"continental-gag-pessoa-how-it-works","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/balotade.com\/en\/continental-gag-pessoa-how-it-works\/","title":{"rendered":"The Continental Gag (Pessoa) \u2013 How Does a Bit With Many Rings Work?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The continental gag<\/a>, often called the continental bit or the Pessoa<\/strong> type, is a true “Swiss army knife” among jumping<\/a> bits. Its characteristic build with several side rings makes it one of the most versatile tools in the hands of a knowledgeable rider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your horse can be strong on a jumping course, but at the same time needs a signal encouraging it to lift its forehand, the continental gag may be the missing element of your communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. The mechanics of “lifting” and leverage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most bits with leverage (such as the Pelham<\/a> or the curb bit) use a curb chain that presses the mouthpiece against the lower jaw. The continental gag works differently \u2013 it has no curb chain<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n