Poles to solve your problems

It may sound counter-intuitive, but sometimes your polework session can be more about the poles you don’t ride over. Allow me to introduce the target – the layout you can get a whole ride out of without going over a single pole.

You can use the target throughout your session from the very beginning and in this layout precision’s the name of the game. It’s especially useful for practising straightness, transitions and circles – all the skills you need to command when riding a test at any level.

Exercise: Through the gap

Revisit riding between the middle pole and the side of the triangle, this time with your horse working correctly into the contact. Try it in all three gaits, starting in walk.

Do…

• ensure your horse is forward and rhythmical Correct him with your leg or a half-halt if required
• pay attention to how he feels in the contact Is he behind the bit or leaning? Does he feel heavier in one rein than the other? Use your leg to push him into the empty rein (whether it’s one or both) and ensure you’re riding with a soft hand to give him nothing to lean on

Don’t…

• assume it’ll be easy Don’t let this exercise’s simplicity allow your riding to slip off the boil. Imagine you’re being marked on this line in a test and give it your all

Pick up a copy of April Horse&Rider magazine, on sale 4 March 2021, for more great exercises using this pole layout.