Straight and supple

A schooling session without some form of polework is rare for me. I think poles are invaluable because they can be used in so many ways, and you can tailor your sessions to suit your experience and goals.

One of the best things about this? The most simple layouts can be really beneficial for your horse’s training. In this feature, I share five straightforward exercises that will challenge – as well as improve – your horse’s straightness and suppleness. Let’s get started.

To begin with

Start your session by walking your horse large around the arena to let him take in the environment. People often start fussing with their horses straight away, so focus on having soft arms, encouraging him to stretch and take the rein forward in a loose frame as you change the rein, and ride a few loops and serpentines. Pay close attention to your own breathing – it will signal to your horse that you want him to work in a relaxed manner and without any pressure.

Testing, testing

As you ride through your warm-up routine, try this little exercise. Ride large in an active trot, then, as you come onto the long side, ask your horse to bend to the outside through his body so his nose is slightly towards the arena fence for a few strides. Re-centre him by establishing equal aids and then ask him to marginally bend to the inside.

Use your leg to ask for bend rather than relying on your rein, otherwise you risk creating too much neck bend, which will pull your horse out of balance, causing you to lose control of his shoulders.

When you feel you have softness, see if you can push your hand towards the bit a couple of centimetres or so but without losing the contact. If your horse hollows and comes against the hand, send him forwards by engaging his hindleg rather than pulling him down into a contact.

Did you know?

People often teach their horses to fall in or out without even realising because they’re not disciplined enough in their training. Turning too early before reaching the track is a classic example of this.

Discover more of Pippa’s polework exercises for a straight and supple horse in February Horse&Rider, out now!