Which of the following is NOT a pressure point utilized by bits and bridles?

The pressure points utilized by bits and bridles include areas where the device interacts directly with the horse to communicate commands and control movement. The cheek, nose, roof of the mouth, and poll are all essential points where pressure can be applied through the use of a bit or bridle.

The cheek refers to the area where the bit lies against the horse’s mouth, providing communication through lateral pressure. The nose is involved when various types of bridles apply pressure to encourage response. The roof of the mouth, or the hard palate, is where the bit can exert pressure, influencing the horse's response to rein cues. The poll, located at the top of the horse's head, is another area where pressure can be applied, particularly with certain types of bridles that adjust accordingly.

In contrast, the cheek is not recognized as a specific pressure point in the same context as the others when considering the main areas impacted by bits and bridles. Instead, it serves more as a support structure rather than an active pressure point during riding or training. Therefore, identifying the cheek as not being a pressure point reinforces the understanding of how bits and bridles operate through critical areas of influence on the horse.