The Clock is Ticking
Goal(s)
Manage stride length and rhythm on a curve
Process
Once the warm-up at all three gaits is complete, invite the riders to join you on a 20-meter circle. Set up three ground poles on the circle. First, establish a steady track at the trot, ensuring the horse maintains a regular rhythm and correct bend. Although this exercise is designed to improve the canter, it can be performed at any gait. Once the horse is consistent and balanced, pick up a working canter over one of the poles, aiming for a balanced and engaged canter. Count the strides out loud (4-4-9) as the horse canters over the poles—these numbers correspond to the number of canter strides between each pole for a horse in working canter. Continue circling, maintaining regularity and accuracy. If the exercise is going well, you can change rein and repeat on the other hand.
Difficulties
To increase the difficulty, you can change the stride patterns to be achieved (3-3-8), (4-3-9), (3-4-8), etc. The aim of this progression is to develop the ability to adjust stride length on a curve while maintaining a consistent track. Make sure riders COUNT OUT LOUD as they ride. This helps with breathing and concentration.
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