A whip consisting of a thin flexible shaft with a handle at one end and a thin cord at the other. Typically between 80 and 120cm in length (approx. 35-45 inches). It can be used in addition to the rider's own aids to apply a stimulus to the horse's flanks or sides without the rider having to take the hands off the reins. When working a horse from the ground, schooling whips can be used as an extension of a handler's arms to touch body parts that are out of reach. The use of schooling whips in equestrian competition is generally regulated.
Crops and whips should not be used with great force or repeatedly as they may cause injury to a horse. Punishing or discipling a horse with a whip or a crop is unlikely to modify a horse's behaviour in a constructive way and may have welfare implications. See also riding crop.