The Hairpin
Goal(s)
Work on bending and propulsion through inter and intra gait transitions.
Process
Place the cones in advance for quality of the track. Start at a walk. Then, if you want to work on inter-gait transitions:
- circle at canter, line at trot, volte at trot, line at canter
- circle at trot, line at canter, volte at trot, line at canter
- circle at canter, line at trot, volte at canter, line at trot
Keep the same principle for intra-gait transitions, keeping in mind to ask for extensions on the lines.
Difficulties
An additional difficulty is to be able to change rein in the exercise and work on diagonals using the cones as markers (see diagram) provided you are comfortable with changing the flow of reins for the rider. After the diagonal, resume the initial track on the circle or the volte.
Similar sessions
Long rein | Easy
Work on steering with long reins.
Long rein | Easy
Work on steering with the goal of passing ground poles. Create smooth curves, achieve beautiful circles, and regain good straightness between circles.
Long rein | Medium
Work on direction with the goal of passing ground poles. Create beautiful curves, achieve perfect circles, and regain good straightness between circles. Successfully change your position relative to the horse while continuing the exercise.
Long rein | Hard
Work on steering with the goal of navigating ground poles. Create beautiful curves, achieve perfect circles, and regain good straightness between circles. Successfully change your position relative to the horse while continuing the exercise.